In a significant bust, the Mumbra police have arrested Ejaz Ahmad alias Fahad, a Bhojpuri film producer from Lucknow, for masterminding a large-scale sextortion and online fraud racket. The operation involved fake matrimonial and dating profiles, honey-trapping schemes, and a fraudulent call centre — collectively duping dozens of victims of crores of rupees.
The 36-year-old small-time producer, who had been financing Bhojpuri films with money gained from the scam, was caught after a six-kilometre vehicle chase in Lucknow. His accomplice, Zaid Khan, was earlier arrested in Bhopal, and his confession helped unravel the sophisticated network.
The scam came to light after a Mumbra woman lost Rs13.5 lakh to a man pretending to be a U.S.-based diamond trader on a matrimonial site. Investigations revealed that Ejaz was operating a 1,500 sq ft fake call centre in Lucknow, equipped with fake profiles, scripted chats, and female employees trained to conduct explicit video calls for blackmail.
According to DCP Subhash Burse, over 80 victims, including 30 women, have been identified. The fraudulently obtained money was funneled into Ejaz’s film projects. He had recently produced a film and was planning a music video with two well-known singers before being caught.
The police seized electronic devices and records during the raid. Officers from Mumbra posed as locals in Lucknow to apprehend the accused.
Authorities warn that online platforms posing as genuine matrimonial or dating services are becoming increasingly risky, with fraudsters using highly convincing tactics to trap users.
“People should exercise caution while using such platforms. Fraud like this not only leads to financial loss but can also result in emotional distress,” said Burse.
The investigation is ongoing, and police are working to identify further accomplices and victims.
