Ahmedabad, March 20, 2026 – In a dramatic midday operation, Ahmedabad Crime Branch officers arrested a self-styled yoga guru and six others in a major counterfeit currency syndicate, seizing fake notes worth ₹2.10 crore.
The main accused, identified as Pradeep Jotangiya – popularly known as Pradeep Guruji – was nabbed along with his associates after a meticulously planned surveillance. Police had stationed a team of 24 personnel from early morning, keeping watch following credible intelligence about a suspicious transaction. Around 3 PM, when a Fortuner vehicle matching the description appeared, officers swung into action and intercepted the group in the Amraiwadi area.
During interrogation, the yoga instructor reportedly remarked philosophically, “My own karma brought me here”, accepting his predicament with a twist of spiritual reflection.
Investigations revealed the racket had links to Surat, where authorities later uncovered a printing setup used to produce high-quality counterfeit ₹500 notes. The operation allegedly masqueraded under the banner of spiritual activities, possibly tied to an entity called Satyam Yoga & Health or similar front, allowing the group to transport and distribute the fakes with some cover.
Some reports indicate the total seizure across connected locations reached up to ₹2.9 crore in bogus currency. Police recovered the fake notes from the vehicle, which in a bizarre detail was reportedly marked with misleading “Government of India” and “Ministry of AYUSH” logos to evade suspicion.
The Crime Branch described it as a significant blow to the counterfeit network operating in Gujarat. All arrested individuals, including one woman, are under custody as further probes continue into the supply chain, printing technology, and potential wider distribution.
This high-profile bust highlights how criminals sometimes exploit trusted facades like yoga and spirituality to run illicit operations, shocking locals who knew the guru only through his wellness classes and motivational sessions. Authorities say more arrests could follow as the investigation deepens.