Cyber crime police in Puducherry have arrested two individuals, Mahesh from Puducherry and Sajid from Tiruchy, in connection with a large-scale online fraud involving fake Instagram advertisements offering iPhone 15 devices at unrealistically low prices.
The scam affected over 100 people, mostly from Tamil Nadu. Victims were lured by Instagram posts promoting iPhones for just Rs 7,000. One complainant, Ranjith Kumar from Gorimedu, Puducherry, transferred the amount in three installments but never received the product. Attempts to contact the sellers led to abusive responses, prompting him to report the fraud to authorities.
A specialized cyber investigation team, led by Inspectors S Diagaradjane and BC Kirthy, with Head Constable Manimozhi and PC Vinoth, traced the accused using digital forensics and online tracking. The duo operated multiple fraudulent Instagram accounts and convinced victims through promotional videos and messages before defrauding them.
Investigations revealed five bank accounts used to process payments totaling over Rs 15 lakh. Police seized four mobile phones and Rs 1.3 lakh cash from the accused. So far, 43 complaints have been filed on the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal (NCRP), with both accused now in judicial custody.
Inspector General of Police Dr. Ajit Kumar Singla warned the public against falling prey to unrealistic online offers and urged caution.
