MTV Splitsvilla winner Jay Dudhane arrested at Mumbai airport in ₹4.61 crore property scam case

Reality television personality Jay Dudhane, best known as the winner of MTV Splitsvilla 13, was arrested at Mumbai airport on Saturday in connection with an alleged real estate fraud worth ₹4.61 crore, police confirmed on Sunday.

The arrest followed a complaint filed by a retired engineer, who accused Dudhane and four members of his family of cheating him through the sale of five commercial shops in Thane that were already mortgaged to a bank.

Allegations of forged documents and fake payments

According to the First Information Report (FIR), the complainant was induced to purchase the properties after being shown forged documents, including a fake bank clearance letter.

Police further alleged that Dudhane submitted a counterfeit demand draft worth ₹4.95 crore to make the transaction appear legitimate.

The fraud reportedly came to light when the bank issued a property seizure notice, alerting the buyer that the shops were already under mortgage.

Police confirmation and legal action

Senior Police Inspector Pravin Mane confirmed that Jay Dudhane, who is also known as a model, athlete, fitness instructor and emerging actor, was detained at the airport while attempting to travel.

Police have booked Dudhane and four of his family members under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for cheating and forgery.

Officials said the investigation is ongoing and additional evidence is being examined.

Timing draws attention

The arrest has drawn added attention as it comes just days after Jay Dudhane married social media personality Harshala Patil on 24 December.

Dudhane also gained popularity after appearing on Bigg Boss Marathi Season 3, where he built a strong fan following.

Why this matters now

The case highlights growing concerns around celebrity-linked financial frauds, especially in real estate transactions involving forged paperwork. It also serves as a reminder for buyers to independently verify property titles and bank clearances, regardless of the seller’s public profile.

What to watch next

Police are expected to question other accused family members and scrutinise financial trails, bank records and property documents. Further arrests or additional charges may follow as the investigation progresses.