On August 16, 2024, a significant cyber crime operation led by Inspector Rajeev Tiwari of the Cyber Crime Station, Prayagraj Commissionerate, resulted in the arrest of the leader and members of a gang involved in a major cyber fraud case. The operation was conducted under the oversight of the Police Commissioner of Prayagraj Commissionerate, the Additional Police Commissioner, the Deputy Commissioner of Police, and the Assistant Commissioner of Police, Cyber Crime Station.
Case Details
- FIR Number: 35/2024
- Sections Invoked: 319(2), 318(4), 308(2), 336(3), 111(1)(2) B.N.S.S., and sections 66C/66D of the IT Act.
Case Summary
The accused lured the victim with promises of high returns on investments using a fraudulent DEFTER/LASER ACCOUNTING APP. The victim initially invested ₹20 lakhs. When attempting to withdraw their funds, the accused, who impersonated officials from CBI, RBI, Income Tax, and other agencies, threatened the victim with summons, notices, and imprisonment. Ultimately, the gang defrauded the victim of ₹68 lakhs.
Modus Operandi
- Investment Scam: The gang convinced victims to invest in digital currency using a fake DEFTER/LEDGER ACCOUNTING app that showed fabricated profits.
- Impersonation: They impersonated CBI officers and other officials to issue fake tax and penalty notices, summonses, and threats of jail.
- Caller ID Spoofing: The accused used caller ID spoofing via Truecaller to appear as CBI officers, intimidating victims and coercing them to transfer money.
- Utilization of Fraudulent Funds: The money obtained through these scams was used to open and operate “Night Queen Bar and Restaurant” and “Metro View Bar and Restaurant” in New Delhi.
Current Status
The investigation has led to the successful apprehension of the gang members, and their operations are being scrutinized further. The involvement of various high-profile officials and the comprehensive nature of the scam highlight the seriousness of this cyber fraud case.
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