The Rahata Court on Tuesday remanded Ashok Kharat, the primary accused in a Shirdi land acquisition scam and credit society fraud, to police custody until May 9. Kharat was produced before the court by Shirdi police following his transfer from Nashik, where he was previously held in judicial custody for a separate case.

Investigating officer Nivanta Jadhav informed the court that Kharat allegedly acquired a 4.5-acre plot in Shirdi, valued at ₹50 crore, for ₹5.5 crore through a fraudulent sale deed. The investigation focuses on 14 financial transactions totaling ₹5.52 crore and potential violations of the Money Lending Act involving high-interest loans issued to the original landowner.

Authorities are also probing irregularities at the Samata Credit Society, where Kharat reportedly opened 100 accounts using the names of 57 individuals, appointing himself as the sole nominee for all. Police are investigating the potential involvement of the society's president and directors in facilitating these accounts and the subsequent movement of funds.

Kharat’s wife, Kalpana Kharat, remains absconding after the court rejected her anticipatory bail application. Police submitted that the interrogation of Ashok Kharat is essential to locate his wife and identify other beneficiaries of the interest earnings generated through the alleged scam.

The Shirdi police will continue tracing the origin of the funds and examining tax disclosures as they prepare to present further findings when the custody period expires on May 9.