Srinagar, Aug 9 : Srinagar Police have arrested a habitual fraudster for allegedly duping businessmen and shopkeepers through fraudulent means and impersonation.

The police identified the accused as Ubaid Maqbool Khawaja, son of Maqbool Ahmad Khawaja, resident of Gomal Chek, Tangdar, presently residing at Habib Colony, Alochi Bagh. He was arrested in connection with FIR No. 45/2026 registered at Police Station Maharaj Gunj under Sections 318(4) and 319 BNS.
Police said the accused has cheated several traders across the Valley. Multiple complaints have been received against him from different areas, and he is already facing cases at various police stations.
These include FIR No. 76/2022 under Section 430 IPC at Police Station Kothibagh and FIR No. 83/2023 under Sections 201, 379, 416 and 430 IPC at Police Station Pulwama.
Authorities added that the accused was previously detained under the Public Safety Act (PSA) due to his repeated involvement in criminal activities.
Further investigation is underway to trace his wider network and ascertain his role in other fraud cases, reads the statement.