In a significant crackdown on cyber fraud, police have dismantled a pan-India online gaming scam that duped unsuspecting investors out of Rs18 crore. The scam revolved around fraudulent high-return schemes promoted through an online platform
Accused Identified
Among those arrested are:
Pankaj Goswami from Hanumangarh, Rajasthan
Bhaven Kumar Ulke from Nagpur, Maharashtra
The identities of six other accused have not yet been disclosed by police.
SSP Harmandeep Singh Hans revealed that the racket lured victims by sending WhatsApp messages filled with fake earnings screenshots to build trust. Victims were urged to create user IDs and invest money into several linked bank accounts.
A team led by DSP Rupinder Deep Kaur Sohi launched simultaneous raids at key locations in Kharar, including:
Koiyaan City Homes
Gillco Valley
Royal Apartments
These raids resulted in the arrest of eight individuals and the seizure of critical digital evidence.
Mastermind Still Absconding
The mastermind, known as Vijay, remains on the run. A lookout circular has been issued, and authorities are intensifying efforts to track him down.
SSP Hans urged the public to stay alert and avoid online investment schemes or gaming platforms promising unrealistic returns, which are often fronts for fraud.
The investigation is ongoing, with police tracing the money trail, identifying new victims, and uncovering possible links to wider cybercrime networks.
