Gandhinagar: Police have intensified their investigation into the alleged multi-crore ShootSpace Digital cloud storage investment scam, issuing a Look Out Circular (LOC) against key accused Utpal Patel, who is believed to have fled to Dubai before the case was registered.

It is learnt that Utpal Patel left the country before investors lodged an FIR with Dabhoda police. Authorities have confirmed his presence in Dubai and have initiated steps to secure his return. Officials said a Red Corner Notice (RCN) will be sought after the filing of the charge sheet in court.

Meanwhile, police have arrested Bhoomi Patel, wife of Utpal Patel, and Dhruv Chaudhari, another director associated with the company. Earlier, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) had arrested Arun Patel of Aravalli district and Sachinkumar Patel of New Naroda for their alleged role in the scam.

Investigators suspect that more than 10,000 investors nationwide may have been duped, with the fraud amount likely exceeding Rs 500 crore. An SIT has been formed to probe the case, and police have urged victims to contact Gandhinagar police.

According to investigators, the accused operated ShootSpace Private Limited and ShootSpace Digital Private Limited, claiming to be cloud storage service providers. They allegedly ran offices at the World Trade Centre, GIFT City, and First Infocity and promised investors monthly returns of Rs 38,640 on investments in 1 TB of cloud storage space.

Police said returns were paid between February 2025 and March 2026, after which payments stopped and the company shut down operations.

The probe is now focused on tracing financial transactions, digital payment records and communication details of the accused. Investigators are also examining the alleged diversion of funds to related firms, including Well Cloudji Technology Limited and Harry Hospitality and Leisure Limited, and whether any of the money was used to purchase land in Rajasthan.

Police said further arrests are likely as the investigation progresses. DeshGujarat