The South Region Cyber Police have arrested 36-year-old Ambernath resident Umesh Gangawni for allegedly allowing his bank account to be used to channel money obtained through a cyber fraud.
The case involves a 78-year-old woman living on Bhulabhai Desai Road in south Mumbai, who was duped of Rs1.14 crore after being promised high returns on investments in shares, commodities, and gold trading.
The arrest was carried out on Tuesday by a team led by Senior Inspector Nandkumar Gopale and Inspector Suresh Bhoye. Gangawni has been remanded to police custody until February 26.
How the Fraud Unfolded
According to investigators, the victim came across an online investment advertisement in June last year. While researching the company on Telegram, she found a channel with a similar name. Soon after, she received a call from a man identifying himself as Amit Somaiyya, who contacted her using a +44 international number.
The caller persuaded her to invest, assuring substantial profits. Over the course of 18 transactions, she transferred Rs1.14 crore into multiple bank accounts provided by the accused.
Police said Gangawni had established a firm named Jhule Lal Traders and opened a bank account in its name. Around Rs10 lakh from the complainant was deposited into this account before being transferred to other accounts. Authorities have managed to freeze Rs40 lakh in various linked accounts after the victim approached the police.
Scam Exposed After Withdrawal Request
The fraud came to light on February 11 when the woman attempted to withdraw some of her returns. She was told she needed to pay tax on the purported profits. Suspicious, she discussed the matter with her daughter, who realized it was a scam.
An FIR was registered on February 12, leading to further investigation and Gangawni’s arrest. Police are continuing efforts to trace other individuals involved in the investment scam network.
