Indian police are currently investigating the startling incident of a suspected fraudster who managed to stay for almost two years in a luxurious five-star hotel in Delhi without making any payment.

Local media reports revealed the audacious scheme that allowed Ankush Dutta to enjoy an extended stay at the Roseate House Hotel while accumulating unpaid bills totalling $70,000 (£55,000).

Ankush Dutta initially booked a room at the Roseate House Hotel on 30 May 2019, stating an intention to check out the following day. But he then extended his stay for an astonishing 603 nights, eventually leaving the premises on 22 January 2021.

The Indian Express newspaper, citing the police complaint, revealed that the investigation uncovered falsified accounts used to conceal the actual outstanding dues owed by Ankush Dutta.

These findings have only added to the complexity of the case.

Suspected collusion with the staff

The hotel management has also lodged a police complaint against several employees, suspecting their involvement in a conspiracy that facilitated the fraudulent stay.

The allegations against these individuals include forgery, cheating and engaging in illicit activities. The management suspects that the staff members may have been bribed to manipulate the hotel's in-house software systems, allowing Ankush Dutta to evade detection and continue his unpaid stay undisturbed.

The police are diligently probing the matter and working to ascertain the extent of the suspected fraud and the involvement of all parties concerned. As the investigation unfolds, the authorities are focused on obtaining concrete evidence to bring those responsible to justice.