Panchkula's Cyber Fraud: How Duo Racked Up Rs 9 Crore in Just 10 Days

The Cyber Police Station in Panchkula, Haryana, apprehended two individuals in connection with a significant cyber fraud amounting to Rs 9.68 crore. According to DCP Himadri Kaushik, the arrests were made following reports of fraudulent activities where funds were illicitly transferred overseas from the country. The investigation has revealed connections to an individual residing abroad, who is currently under scrutiny. The accused, identified as Jatin Jindal and Mushtaq from Patiala, Punjab, were apprehended as part of ongoing efforts to dismantle a network that duped victims through WhatsApp groups promising lucrative investment returns. Jindal, described as proficient in Information Technology (IT), managed the operations while Mushtaq handled banking transactions. Authorities suspect the involvement of additional accomplices who are yet to be apprehended.

DCP Kaushik stated that their modus operandi involved deceiving victims into joining WhatsApp groups with promises of high returns on investments. The gang manipulated victims into transferring Rs 9 crore 68 lakh, which was subsequently routed abroad. He further added that efforts are underway to recover the defrauded amount and investigate the mechanism used to transfer funds internationally.

So far, Rs 1 crore has been seized, but efforts continue to recover the remaining funds. Authorities are actively investigating the method used to transfer money abroad. Several mobile phones and bank accounts belonging to the accused have been discovered, with ongoing efforts to gather additional information from these devices.

Investigations have also revealed one suspect currently residing outside India, adding an international dimension to the case. The probe, initiated following a complaint on July 3, is expected to uncover further details as it progresses. This case underscored the need for vigilance in online transactions and served as a reminder to the public to exercise caution, remarked DCP Kaushik.

Authorities across several states are coordinating efforts to locate other members of the gang and retrieve the remaining funds.