California Investor Denies $100M Bank Fraud
Why Was Mahender Makhijani Arrested? Why did federal agents move in on Mahender Makhijani on June 10, 2026? Authorities arrested the Corona del Mar resident after a federal criminal complaint accused him of bank fraud and making a false statement to a bank. Investigators said he allegedly used falsified title insurance policies, altered records, and shell companies to mislead a federally insured lender. Such allegations echo broader concerns about financial fraud vulnerabilities that authorities say continue to affect lending systems. The alleged scheme involved lien priority and collateral tied to Irvine real estate. Prosecutors said the alleged fraud centered on a $100 million loan from Western Alliance Bank. Custody, Court Status, and Legal Stakes The Department of Justice and IRS announced the arrest, and law enforcement took him into custody immediately. In Santa Ana federal court, Makhijani pleaded not guilty. His legal defenses will be tested as the case proceeds. His immigrat...