Indian law enforcement authorities are conducting an investigation into an alleged fraudster who managed to stay at a luxury hotel for nearly two years without paying, apparently by bribing staff to manipulate records, according to local media reports. Ankush Dutta made a reservation at the Roseate House hotel in New Delhi on May 30, 2019, and was supposed to check out the next day.
However, he extended his stay for 603 nights until he finally checked out on January 22, 2021, leaving behind unpaid bills totaling $70,000. According to the police complaint cited by the Indian Express newspaper, it was discovered that the bills were falsified to hide the actual outstanding debts.
In addition, the hotel managers filed a police complaint against several employees for conspiracy, forgery, and swindling. Authorities suspect that staff members were bribed to manipulate internal computer systems to conceal Dutta’s non-payment.
At this time, Roseate House officials could not immediately be reached for further comment or additional information about the incident. Police investigations will continue in order to fully clarify the case and determine the responsibilities of both the alleged fraudster and the employees involved.
This incident highlights the importance of security and vigilance in the management of records and accounts in hotel establishments, as well as the need for safeguards to prevent and detect potential acts of fraud.