Bargarh, Jan 10: Kolkata Police arrested Hemant Verma, a businessman and owner of Danwar Jewellers in Odisha’s Bargarh district, on Friday night, in connection with alleged financial irregularities related to gold jewellery transactions. The arrest followed complaints from several Kolkata-based jewellers and was carried out with the assistance of Bargarh town police.

According to police sources, Verma had purchased gold jewellery worth several lakh rupees from jewellers in Kolkata but failed to settle the outstanding payments. It is believed that he regularly sourced gold jewellery from Kolkata to sell in Bargarh. Over time, multiple traders approached the police, claiming that their payments for the supplied jewellery had not been made, despite repeated reminders.

Following the registration of complaints, Kolkata Police traced Verma’s location to Bargarh and apprehended him late on Friday night with the help of local authorities. He was promptly presented before a court and subsequently brought to Kolkata for further legal proceedings.

Police officials revealed that Verma had been asked multiple times to clear the outstanding dues but had not complied. Investigators are now looking into whether the gold was purchased for legitimate business purposes or if there was an intent to deceive the suppliers.

The incident has raised concerns among traders and residents in Bargarh, sparking discussions about the need for increased caution and verification in high-value commercial transactions, particularly within the jewellery industry.

Authorities have assured the public that the case is under thorough investigation, with a focus on uncovering the full extent of the alleged financial irregularities. The case highlights the importance of transparency and accountability in transactions involving precious commodities such as gold.