Mumbai’s Pantnagar police station has registered a shocking FIR against Bhojpuri actress Aakanksha Awasthi and her husband, accusing them of swindling a staggering 11.5 crore rupees from a businessman. The complaint, filed under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, paints a picture of elaborate deception involving fake film industry promises and a phantom cash stash.
Hitesh Kantilal Ajmera, a customs clearance professional, became the victim of this audacious scam. According to his detailed complaint, Aakanksha and her husband Vivek Kumar alias Abhishek Kumar Singh Chauhan, along with associates, lured him with tales of their powerful connections in the film world. They boasted of massive profits and showcased a supposed studio in Andheri West called ‘AKS Pathshala Entertainment,’ claiming it was a hub for Bhojpuri film shoots and artist training.
The couple dangled irresistible baits: ownership stakes in the studio, fame, and a promise of 200 crore rupees in interest-free loans. But the real hook was Vivek’s story of 300 crore rupees in cash stuck in a warehouse in Betiah, Bihar’s West Champaran district. He claimed legal hurdles prevented access and begged for investment to free it, vowing to return 200 crore rupees interest-free within four days. Aakanksha personally reassured Ajmera, building his trust.
From March to July 2024, Ajmera transferred 11.5 crore rupees across various bank accounts. To solidify the ruse, they took him to Patna, flashing documents linked to the alleged warehouse and planning a trip to Betiah. On July 5, 2024, en route, Vivek stepped out of the car pretexting to buy sweets and vanished. His phone went dead, and all contact ceased after initial excuses.
Devastated by financial ruin and stress-induced health issues, Ajmera delayed reporting but filed the FIR on January 28. Police are now probing bank transactions, the studio’s legitimacy, forged papers, and the accused’s roles. The case has been handed to the Economic Offences Wing for deeper investigation, signaling a major crackdown on celebrity-linked frauds in the entertainment sector.
This scandal rocks the Bhojpuri film industry, raising questions about trust and accountability among its stars. As probes intensify, more details could emerge, potentially implicating others in this web of deceit.