The Cyber Police of Bhubaneswar have arrested Malayalam telefilm producer and actor Prasad Balan, popularly known as Kichu, for masterminding a large inter-state cyber fraud operation.
Officials revealed that Kichu duped victims by promoting fake online investment schemes disguised as trading and “virtual gold bidding” platforms. Leveraging his film industry image, he posted deceptive ads for part-time jobs, trapping job seekers from across India.
One notable victim, Deepak Nayak, lost over Rs54 lakh in the scam. Acting promptly on the complaint, Odisha police coordinated with Kerala authorities to launch a joint operation, leading to Kichu’s arrest in Kerala.
During the arrest, police seized bank documents, multiple PAN cards, passports, and digital devices linked to the fraudulent activities. Investigations indicate Kichu ran similar scams in at least 10 states, channeling the ill-gotten funds into his film and entertainment ventures.
Authorities have warned the public about increasingly sophisticated cyber frauds and urged caution when encountering suspicious job offers and investment schemes online.
The case is still under investigation, with police working to identify more accomplices and victims.
