Major Fake GST Scam Uncovered: Two Arrested in Kolkata
Significant Arrests in GST Fraud Case
Authorities have intensified action against fake GST registration and Input Tax Credit fraud (Representational Image)
Guwahati, Aug 2: A collaborative operation by the Assam State GST Department and the Special Task Force (STF) of Assam Police has led to the arrest of two primary suspects linked to a significant Input Tax Credit (ITC) fraud scheme in Kolkata.
Following an extensive four-day search, law enforcement officials captured Vivek Kumar Gupta from Kolkata and Surajit Barman from Baksa district, both identified as crucial figures in the fraudulent ITC network, which also involves Hrishikesh Kalita and Trishna Barman.
The ongoing investigation has revealed tax evasion exceeding Rs 50 crore, facilitated by a network of 15 fictitious GST firms allegedly established to fraudulently claim and transfer Input Tax Credit.
Another suspect, Shubhrajeet Bhattacharjee, remains at large, and authorities are actively pursuing leads to locate and apprehend him.
Initial investigations suggest that the accused exploited the PAN and Aadhaar information of unsuspecting individuals to unlawfully obtain GST registrations. Vivek Kumar Gupta is believed to have been instrumental in overseeing the financial dealings of this operation.
The operation was spearheaded by Monuj Kr Dowari, superintendent of State Tax, GST Intelligence and Enforcement Unit, Assam, alongside Kamlesh Singh, inspector of STF, Assam Police.
The arrested individuals are currently being transported to Guwahati under transit remand for further questioning. The investigation is ongoing, and additional arrests are anticipated as the case unfolds.