In a swift action, Srinagar Police cracked down on an online fraud racket that exploited Facebook to raise fake medical donations.
On May 30, 2025, Police Station Nowhatta received a complaint from Muneer Ahmad Misger, a resident of Mughal Masjid, Nowhatta. He reported that an unidentified journalist posted a photo of his sister with a false story seeking donations for a surgery that never took place. This malicious act amounted to cheating and exploitation.
Following the complaint, FIR No. 21/2025 was registered under sections 318(2) and 319(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Investigations revealed that Mohammad Lateef Lone, son of Ali Mohammad Lone from Tujan, Pulwama, administered the fraudulent Facebook page. He was promptly arrested.
Another accused, Amir Yousuf Khan, son of Mohammad Yousuf Khan from Bandipora and currently residing in Gulab Bagh, Zakoora, was identified for providing bank account details where the fake donations were collected. He was also arrested.
The police continue to investigate to identify and apprehend other involved individuals. Meanwhile, the Jammu & Kashmir Police have urged the public and media not to share or engage with the fraudulent Facebook post to prevent further distress to the victim’s family and to avoid aiding the criminals.
The authorities request vigilance and encourage reporting of suspicious online fundraising activities to the nearest police station.
