Delhi Police have busted a major transnational cheating syndicate that defrauded Indian citizens using fake lottery and prize schemes. Six individuals, including two Nigerian nationals, were arrested from various parts of Delhi-NCR.
The accused were identified as Shahid Raza (45), Shahrukh Khan (23), Vikas (25), Rakesh alias Lalu (22), and Nigerian nationals Shedrack Onainor (29) and Sunday John alias Liberty (40). The gang allegedly operated a sophisticated fraud system involving fake bank accounts, forged documents, and digital transactions.
According to DCP Vikram Singh (Crime Branch), the gang lured victims through fake online lotteries and gift notifications, convincing them to transfer large sums to fraudulent accounts in hopes of receiving nonexistent rewards.
Acting on a tip-off on July 7, police apprehended Shahid Raza in Punjabi Bagh with Rs3.63 lakh in cash, nine ATM cards, and a mobile phone containing incriminating data. His interrogation led to the arrest of Shedrack Onainor, who had overstayed his medical visa since 2018. He was allegedly collecting the scammed money on behalf of the group.
Further investigation led to the arrests of Shahrukh Khan (Raza’s son-in-law), brothers Vikas and Rakesh from Bareilly, and Nigerian national Sunday John, who had overstayed his business visa.
Police seized 10 mobile phones, Aadhaar and PAN cards, cheque books, passbooks, and other materials used to run the operation.
Shedrack Onainor and Sunday John acted as masterminds, luring victims through digital communications.
Shahid Raza handled ATM withdrawals and delivered cash to the Nigerian handlers, keeping a 15% commission.
Shahrukh Khan managed UPI transfers and account operations.
Vikas and Rakesh fabricated accounts using fake Aadhaar cards and SIMs—opening over 20 bank accounts used for laundering the proceeds.
Each member received a share of the commission. Vikas and Rakesh received 5% collectively, while Shahid and Shahrukh split the rest. The funds were transferred or handed over in cash, often during in-person meetings arranged via auto-rickshaw drop-offs in Delhi.
Shahid Raza
Shahrukh Khan,
Vikas (Class 6 dropout) and Rakesh (uneducated)
Shedrack Onainor and Sunday John,
All six accused are currently in judicial custody. Investigations are ongoing.
