The Delhi Police have cracked a multi-state cyber fraud and hawala syndicate with suspected cross-border connections, arresting a key operator from Lucknow. The accused is alleged to have duped a 61-year-old senior citizen of Rs 33.10 lakh through a fraudulent online investment scheme, officials said.
The investigation revealed that the stolen money was routed through multiple bank accounts operated by shell entities, including a fictitious company named Belcrest India Pvt Ltd. Of the total amount, Rs 10.68 lakh was traced to accounts linked to this fake firm.
Earlier, two accused had been arrested in Delhi, whose interrogation led police to Deepanshu, identified as a key facilitator of the cyber-hawala network, according to DCP (Crime) Aditya Gautam. Authorities recovered two mobile phones, three cheque books, and two debit cards from his possession.
During questioning, Deepanshu admitted to arranging dummy directors, floating shell companies, and opening bank accounts with the help of complicit bank officials, under the instructions of his handlers.
Separately, surveillance in Lucknow revealed the presence of another wanted accused, Rishab Singh, who was absconding in an NDPS Act case registered by Delhi’s Special Cell. Both Deepanshu and Singh were arrested from the same area. Preliminary inquiries revealed that Singh had provided accommodation to help Deepanshu evade arrest.
Police said the investigation is ongoing to identify the masterminds, beneficiaries, and any cross-border connections of the syndicate.
