Srinagar, Dec 02: The Economic Offences Wing of Crime Branch Kashmir has produced a chargesheet in Case FIR No. 21/2022 under Sections 420, 421, 467, 468, and 120-B of the Ranbir Penal Code against two accused persons — Zahid Bashir Shagoo, son of Bashir Ahmad Shagoo, resident of Koker Bazar, Srinagar, presently residing at House No. 2, Indrabi Colony, Narbal, District Budgam, and his wife Shugufta, also a resident of Koker Bazar, Srinagar, currently living in Narbal, Budgam.
The case originated from a written complaint alleging that Zahid Bashir Shagoo deceitfully promised to secure a licence for the establishment of a gas agency. The complainant stated that an amount of ₹38 lakh was paid to the accused for this purpose. However, instead of arranging a genuine licence, the accused allegedly provided fabricated and forged documents purporting to be official authorizations.
Following the complaint, a preliminary verification was initiated by the Crime Branch, which confirmed the allegations of cheating and forgery. The investigation revealed that both Zahid Bashir Shagoo and Shugufta were involved in the fraudulent scheme, misrepresenting themselves and causing financial loss to the complainant.
The chargesheet has been formally submitted before the Hon’ble Court of Chief Judicial Magistrate, Budgam. Officials emphasized that the evidence collected — including forged documents, financial records, and witness statements — substantiates the charges of cheating and criminal conspiracy against the accused.
The Crime Branch Kashmir stated that the case highlights its commitment to tackling economic offences and safeguarding public interests. The court is expected to take cognizance of the charges in the coming weeks, paving the way for trial proceedings against Zahid Bashir Shagoo and Shugufta.
