Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Dec 20: In two separate cybercrime cases registered at the Mangaluru City CEN Crime Police Station, two individuals have been arrested for their involvement in fraudulent activities through WhatsApp messages promising high returns from investments in the stock market.
Stock Front Line fraud of Rs 10.84 lac
In the first case (Crime No. 09/2024), the accused deceived the complainant by sending a link titled "Stock Front Line" on WhatsApp, claiming substantial profits through stock market investments. The complainant was gradually defrauded of Rs 10,84,017.
Based on the confession of a previously arrested individual, Nadavoolu Veera Venkata Satya Narayana Raju, it was revealed that over 500 SIM cards from various Indian telecom companies were sold to cybercriminals in Dubai. Following this lead, an LOC was issued against Kanatal Vasudev Reddy (25), a resident of Ramp village, Ganjam district, Odisha.
Reddy was intercepted at the Delhi International Airport on December 18 while attempting to board a flight to Dubai. He was handed over to Mangaluru police, arrested, and presented before the court.
IIFL Securities fraud of Rs 40.64 lac
In the second case (Crime No. 02/2024), the accused defrauded the complainant of Rs 40,64,609 through a WhatsApp link titled "IIFL Securities" under the pretext of stock market investments.
The investigation revealed that the accused, Jayant P (35), a resident of Pulakkal House, Kozhikode, Kerala, used his bank account for cybercrimes. Over 90 complaints across the country were linked to the same bank account. Jayant was arrested in Kerala, brought to Mangaluru, and presented before the court.
Both operations were conducted under the guidance of Mangaluru city police commissioner Anupam Agarwal IPS, DCP (Law and Order) Siddharth Goyal, and DCP (Crime and Traffic) Ravishanker. The efforts were led by ACP Ravish Naik and CEN police station inspector Satish MP.
Further investigations are underway to identify and apprehend other accused involved in these cases.
How to stay safe?
Vigilance is the key to avoiding such scams. If you receive such calls, never fall for the trap. Remember, police officials never initiate cases online or ask for money.
Most importantly, the term “digital arrest” is fabricated by scammers and does not exist in Indian law. If someone threatens you with it, it is undoubtedly a scam.
Additionally, never share bank details, OTPs, or other sensitive information over phone calls or messages, regardless of the caller’s claims. If you suspect a scam, report it to the authorities and your bank immediately. Quick action can help prevent further losses.