Rs 30 lakh fraud reported in Peddapalli post office

The fraud came to light when a few customers checked the balance in their accounts. As some of the amount was missing from their accounts

Peddapalli: A fraud of nearly Rs.30 lakh has been reported in the Begumpet sub-post office in Ramagiri mandal here. While some of the customers were given fake passbooks without opening accounts, cash was withdrawn from the accounts of a few customers without their knowledge.

The fraud came to light when a few customers checked the balance in their accounts. As some of the amount was missing from their accounts, the customers lodged complaints with higher officials. Reacting to complaints, officials led by Sub-division Postal Officer A Mohan conducted checks in the Begumpet post office and were shocked to find fake passbooks. Out of 1000 passbooks in the post office, 206 passbooks were found fake.

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It was found in the ensuing investigation that though customers deposited money, the postmaster issued fake passbooks with her signature and without opening accounts in their names. On the other hand, money from the accounts of some of the customers was withdrawn without their knowledge. With the investigation still on, sources say more irregularities could be exposed. On the other hand, the official accused of the fraud has reportedly requested the investigation officers to give one month to pay back Rs.30 lakh, it is learnt.