A woman lawyer has been accused of duping a Krushnanagar resident, Hiral (name changed), of over ₹40 lakh under the false promise of securing bail for her husband, who was arrested in a Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) case.
Hiral’s husband was arrested on October 21, 2023, by the Central Bureau of Narcotics. In her search for legal assistance, Hiral came into contact with Meghna Dave, a lawyer from Ranip, who assured her that she could get her husband released within a month. Dave also claimed that her husband, Mehul, worked with the Delhi Crime Branch and would assist in obtaining case documents and managing court proceedings.
Between November 1, 2023, and April 16, 2024, Hiral transferred ₹40.46 lakh to Dave in multiple instalments. During this time, Dave introduced Mehul to Hiral, who even allegedly showed an ID to reinforce their credibility. Dave further claimed that the charge sheet had been filed and even showed a copy on her phone.
However, it was later revealed that no legal action had been initiated, and no case documents were prepared. Suspecting fraud, Hiral approached the Ranip Police, who have launched an investigation.
The police stated that Meghna Dave is currently absconding. Authorities have reached out to the Gujarat Bar Association to verify her lawyer credentials as part of the ongoing probe.