The Crime Branch of Odisha Police has arrested six individuals in connection with a major investment fraud that spanned across Tamil Nadu and Gujarat.
The arrested suspects have been identified as Arun Shaju alias Henry Johnson, Seenu R, and Vasu J from Tamil Nadu, as well as Jaimin Kukdeja Megharajbhai, Brijesh Dayabhai Sathiya, and Udaya Rameshbhai from Gujarat.
According to police reports, Arun Shaju and Jaimin Kukdeja set up bank accounts under their names and shared these details with fraudsters, enabling them to carry out illegal activities. Vasu J, Seenu R, and Udaya Rameshbhai served as “account collectors,” helping to obtain additional mule accounts to facilitate the movement of stolen funds. Brijesh Dayabhai Sathiya was responsible for withdrawing cash from these accounts and handing it over to hawala operators in Gujarat for further distribution.
The investigation began on February 28, 2024, when a resident from Bhubaneswar filed a complaint with the Crime Branch. He had been lured by online advertisements for share market trading and joined two WhatsApp groups promoting trading apps called “GSQT” and “IBGINON.” After depositing significant amounts of money into various bank accounts starting in January 2024, he initially saw large returns. However, as time passed, the fraudsters began pressuring him for more money, threatening to seize his initial investment and profits if he didn’t comply. Realizing he had fallen victim to a scam, the victim reported the matter to the authorities.
The Crime Branch’s Cyber Crime Unit conducted simultaneous raids in Tamil Nadu and Gujarat, arresting the accused individuals. During the raids, police recovered several mobile phones, SIM cards, ATM cards, Aadhar cards, and other documents that further implicated the accused in multiple cybercrimes across India. Details of these cases are still under investigation.
In light of this case, the Cyber Crime Unit has urged the public to be cautious when considering investments, especially when high returns are promised. Citizens are advised to verify the legitimacy of businesses by checking official websites and confirming the identity of anyone claiming to be associated with the investment schemes.