Gopal Paul was arrested on Friday by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in connection with the massive Rs2,200 crore online trading scam in Assam. Paul, who had been evading arrest, was apprehended from a hideout in Siliguri, marking a significant step in the ongoing investigation into the AJRS Marketing case, one of the 41 cases linked to the scam.
The CBI took over the investigation of the 41 cases related to unregulated deposit schemes in Assam after a formal recommendation from the Assam government. Previously, the investigation had been handled by Assam Police, which had already arrested several key suspects involved in the scam. However, Gopal Paul, who had been a prime suspect, remained absconding until his recent arrest.
The case revolves around a massive online trading fraud where unsuspecting investors were promised high returns through fake trading schemes. The scam, which spanned multiple states, allegedly involved the collection of unregulated deposits from the public, totaling an astronomical sum of Rs2,200 crore.
Since taking over the case, the CBI has intensified its probe, conducting fresh searches at 92 locations across five states. The agency’s efforts have led to significant recoveries, including 24 mobile phones, 18 desktops, seven hard drives, and 11 laptops. These devices are expected to provide critical evidence related to the operations of the scam, which is believed to have exploited many victims across the country.
In addition to the recent arrest, the CBI has promised to continue its crackdown on the syndicate involved in the scam, with ongoing searches and further investigations into other individuals and entities connected to the fraudulent scheme. The agency’s actions are part of a broader effort to dismantle unregulated financial operations that have been operating in the region for years.
This development highlights the growing problem of unregulated deposit schemes and online trading frauds, which continue to defraud individuals across the country. The CBI’s involvement underscores the seriousness of these financial crimes and its commitment to holding those responsible accountable. The agency has urged the public to be cautious when approached with investment opportunities, especially those offering unusually high returns, and to verify the legitimacy of financial schemes before committing funds.
