Mumbai: A computer operator employed at a state-run sports complex in Maharashtra, earning a monthly salary of ₹13,000, has been accused of embezzling ₹21 crore, which he allegedly used to purchase luxury cars and a 4BHK flat for his girlfriend.
Harshal Kumar Kshirsagar, a contractual staff member at the divisional sports complex in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, is currently on the run. Police have arrested his colleague, Yashoda Shetty, and her husband, BK Jeevan, on charges of aiding Harshal in the fraud.
The investigation has revealed a detailed plan executed by the 23-year-old. Harshal allegedly used an old letterhead from the sports complex to email the bank, requesting a change in the email address linked to the complex’s account. He had set up a new email address, identical to the original one with just one letter changed. This new email was then linked to the sports complex’s bank account, allowing Harshal to access OTPs and other necessary details for transactions.
Harshal proceeded to activate internet banking on the divisional sports complex’s bank account and, between July 1 and December 7, transferred ₹21.6 crore into 13 different bank accounts.
Police revealed that the embezzled funds were used to purchase a BMW car worth ₹1.2 crore, an SUV priced at ₹1.3 crore, and a BMW bike valued at ₹32 lakh. Harshal is also accused of gifting his girlfriend a luxurious 4BHK flat near Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar airport and ordering a diamond-studded pair of glasses for her.
Authorities suspect that more individuals may be involved in this massive fraud and are gathering documents related to the bank accounts used to siphon the money. The luxury vehicles have been seized as part of the ongoing search for Harshal.
The fraud came to light when a sports department official noticed financial discrepancies and filed a complaint.
Senior police officer Prashant Kadam confirmed that three individuals have been named in the FIR so far. “Two suspects have been arrested, and one is still at large. The investigation revealed that the accused purchased a BMW car and bike, a luxury apartment, and even ordered gold ornaments. Our teams are continuing the search for the main suspect,” he said.
