Daijiworld Media Network – Gurugram

Gurugram, Feb 24: In a major crackdown on cyber crime, Gurugram Police’s cyber crime team has arrested 27 individuals, including a minor, for their involvement in a nationwide scam amounting to Rs 157.90 crore. The accused have been linked to 14,633 complaints of fraud across the country, police said on Monday.

After analyzing data from 17 mobile phones and three SIM cards recovered from the suspects, investigators found that the group was responsible for financial fraud reported in multiple states. Of the 14,633 complaints registered against them, 611 were converted into formal cases. Among these, 28 cases were filed in Haryana, including four in Gurugram.

The accused admitted to operating elaborate scams using fake Instagram identities, investment fraud, digital arrest scams, KYC-related fraud, and task-based deception. Their tactics included offering fake stock market investment opportunities, fraudulent online loan schemes, and luring victims with attractive financial returns.

During the operation, police recovered seven mobile phones, three SIM cards, and two debit cards from the suspects. ACP (South) Priyanshu Diwan stated that Gurugram Police is collaborating with various agencies to counter cyber fraud. He urged the public to remain cautious of suspicious online activities and avoid sharing personal information with unknown individuals.

The cyber criminals employed multiple tactics to defraud victims, including falsely promising reduced electricity bills, impersonating customs or police officials to extort money, blackmailing individuals through WhatsApp video calls, and using manipulated images for sextortion. They also exploited digital arrest threats, luring victims into paying money under the pretense of avoiding legal trouble.

Authorities have warned citizens to be vigilant and report any suspicious online activity to law enforcement agencies. The investigation is ongoing, with efforts to trace further connections and dismantle the network.