Lucknow — In a major breakthrough, the Lucknow Police Commissionerate’s Southern Zone, along with the Uttar Pradesh STF, has arrested a notorious conman involved in duping army personnel and civilians of crores of rupees through fraudulent real estate deals. The accused, Pramod Upadhyay, who had a ₹25,000 bounty on his head, has over 30 cases of fraud and forgery registered against him.
Joint Operation by STF and Mohanlalganj Police
Acting under the directives of Police Commissioner Amrendra Singh Sengar, a joint team was formed comprising Deputy Commissioner of Police (South) Nipun Agarwal, Additional DCP Amit Kumawat, ACP Rajneesh Verma, and Mohanlalganj SHO D.K. Singh. With support from the Special Task Force (STF), the team arrested Pramod Upadhyay from Kanha Upvan in the Mohanlalganj area on June 15.
How the Fraud Was Exposed
On March 30, 2025, Lakshmi Devi Kukreti, a resident of Pune (Maharashtra), lodged a complaint at Mohanlalganj police station. She stated that she had purchased a plot in Mau village (under Mohanlalganj) in 2021 from a real estate firm named H.K. Infravision Pvt. Ltd. Despite registration, possession of the plot was never handed over.
Modus Operandi
Pramod posed as the director of a reputed real estate firm and offered plots under attractive schemes. He specifically targeted members of the armed forces, paramilitary personnel, and working professionals—individuals who often lacked time to verify property authenticity. He would get plots registered but never handed over possession or sold disputed or unauthorized land. Upon complaints, he misled victims with false promises of refunds.
Over 30 FIRs Registered
In Mohanlalganj police station alone, 19 FIRs have been filed under IPC Sections 406, 420, 504, 506, and 409. Additionally, several cases are registered in other police stations across Lucknow including Sarojininagar, Ashiyana, Cantt, and PGI. Charges include fraud, criminal breach of trust, intimidation, rioting, and violations under the SC/ST Act.
Items Recovered
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Two real estate company brochures
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Four fake company seals
A Major Victory for Law Enforcement
The arrest, facilitated by technical surveillance and confidential inputs, is being hailed as a significant victory for the police. The accused had been evading arrest for a long time, but coordinated planning between Mohanlalganj Police and the STF ensured his capture. Authorities say the arrest brings long-awaited relief to victims and serves as a warning against falling prey to real estate scams.
