Surat, July 6th - In a startling incident that has shaken the already vulnerable diamond industry of Surat, a broker has allegedly absconded with diamonds worth Rs 1.09 crore. The Surat police, who have launched an investigation into the matter, are also probing the possibility of a larger scam involving multiple victims.
Amid the economic downturn that has gripped the diamond industry due to reduced procurement in western nations, reports of recurring fraudulent activities are causing alarm. This recent case, yet another in a string of scams, has intensified an atmosphere of mistrust within the local diamond market.
The accused, Alpesh Vallabh Miyani, a broker associated with the diamond firm Balaram Impex in Mahidharpura, disappeared after taking possession of 941.96 carats of natural diamonds to purportedly sell to other traders. The broker's subsequent incommunicado status has raised suspicions and resulted in a formal complaint lodged with the local police.
The victim of the alleged fraud, 47-year-old Pravinbhai Mavjibhai Goti, owner of Balaram Impex, explained the circumstances that led to the unfortunate event. According to Goti, the broker took the diamonds between March 27 and April 12, claiming he had buyers willing to pay a lucrative price. As time passed without any news of a transaction or return of the diamonds, Goti attempted to contact Miyani, who initially reassured him that the diamonds were secure.
However, when Miyani began to dodge further inquiries and then became unreachable, Goti grew suspicious. Despite attempts to summon the broker to his office, Miyani did not respond and subsequently vanished, leading Goti to lodge a complaint at the Mahidharpura police station.
This event underscores a recent warning issued by State Home Minister Harsh Sanghvi. Addressing the diamond traders of Mahidharpura, he advised conducting business through cheque payments to avoid such fraudulent practices.
The police are now investigating the case and looking into potential links to other similar scams in the industry. This incident underscores the precarious nature of the diamond trade and the pressing need for enhanced security measures.
