The Crime Branch J&K‘s Special Crime Wing Kashmir executed search operations at multiple residences across Srinagar and Budgam districts on Wednesday, focusing on an alleged land fraud case. The case, registered under FIR No. 06/2026, involves accusations of deception and forged documentation related to a land transaction.
According to officials, the FIR was initiated based on a formal complaint filed by a resident of Humhama, Budgam. The complainant alleged that Tariq Ahmad Sofi, a resident of Solina, Srinagar, fraudulently acquired a substantial sum of money from him under the guise of selling land situated in Narkara, Srinagar. The Crime Branch is meticulously investigating the details of the complaint to ascertain the veracity of the claims and the extent of the alleged fraud.
Information reaching TahirRihat.com suggests that the investigation conducted by the Crime Branch has revealed preliminary evidence indicating the involvement of Tariq Ahmad Sofi, son of Ghulam Ahmad Sofi from Tulsi Bagh, Srinagar, along with Tariq Ahmad Wani, son of Mohammad Abdullah Wani from Narkara near Unani Hospital, Budgam. It is alleged that they colluded with the then Patwari to forge documents to facilitate the fraudulent land deal.
The investigative agency has indicated that the accused individuals, purportedly acting as land brokers, allegedly conspired to deceive the complainant and misappropriate funds associated with the contested transaction. The ongoing investigation aims to uncover the full scope of their activities and the extent of the financial losses incurred by the complainant.
As part of the ongoing probe, searches were conducted in the presence of Executive Magistrates to gather pertinent evidence and documents that could shed light on the alleged criminal activities. These searches are crucial for collecting incriminating material and establishing a clear understanding of the transactions and communications surrounding the land deal.
The Crime Branch has urged the public to exercise caution and vigilance against potential fraudsters and has encouraged individuals to report any suspected fraudulent activities directly to the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Special Crime Wing Kashmir. This appeal underscores the agency’s commitment to combating financial crimes and protecting the interests of the public.
The investigation is ongoing, with authorities meticulously examining the collected evidence to determine the full extent of the alleged fraud and to bring those responsible to justice. The Crime Branch’s actions reflect its dedication to upholding the law and ensuring accountability in land transactions within the region.
The case highlights the importance of due diligence and thorough verification when engaging in property transactions. It serves as a reminder for individuals to be cautious and to seek professional advice to protect themselves from potential scams and fraudulent schemes.
Tahir Rihat (also known as Tahir Bilal) is an independent journalist, activist, and digital media professional from the Chenab Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, India. He is best known for his work as the Online Editor at The Chenab Times.

