Maharashtra’s Mira Bhayandar-Vasai Virar Police have arrested four people for allegedly constructing around 2,000 unauthorised structures and forging documents to fraudulently claim compensation under the Virar-Alibaug Multi-modal Corridor project.
The alleged scam came to light in Mori village, where the accused reportedly built single-room structures on land earmarked for government acquisition, police said on Saturday, October 24.
According to the police, the accused allegedly obtained advance information between 2022 and 2023 about specific land parcels identified for acquisition. They then constructed approximately 2,000 unauthorised structures, each measuring around 10 by 10 feet, without the necessary approvals from planning authorities.
Forged Records Used To Seek Compensation
Investigators suspect that the structures were created to secure higher compensation payouts from the government. To establish eligibility, the accused allegedly submitted forged documents to the Group Gram Panchayat to have the unauthorised constructions entered into house tax assessment records.
The alleged irregularities were first reported by a Talathi, a revenue official. Following the complaint, Naigaon police registered a case on September 29, 2026, under the Maharashtra Regional and Town Planning Act, 1966.
Further investigation reportedly revealed a broader conspiracy involving landowners and other associates. Police subsequently invoked provisions of the Indian Penal Code relating to cheating, forgery and criminal conspiracy, including Sections 420, 465, 467, 468, 471, 474 and 120B.
Investigation Continues
Police have arrested four suspects and are examining land transactions, construction-related documents and financial records to establish the alleged fraud and identify other people involved.
The investigation is ongoing, with authorities seeking to determine the full extent of the alleged scheme and establish how the unauthorised structures were recorded for potential compensation claims.
