In a significant breakthrough against online fraud, Noida Police’s cyber crime unit has apprehended a cunning scammer from Rampur who duped victims of lakhs through fake investment schemes. The accused lured people via WhatsApp with promises of lucrative returns from online stores.
Operating a sophisticated racket, the gang has reportedly swindled crores from unsuspecting individuals across India. Acting on local intelligence and electronic surveillance, the cyber team nabbed Shahnawaz, son of Shamsad Ahmad, from Naungawa village under Shahzad Nagar police station in Rampur district.
During the arrest, authorities seized a mobile phone, four debit cards, an Aadhaar card, PAN card, driving license, and a 26-page call data sheet from his possession. Investigations reveal that Shahnawaz sent bogus investment links on WhatsApp, initially offering small returns to build trust before coaxing victims into larger investments and vanishing with the funds.
The fraudster also rented out his bank accounts to other cybercriminals for a commission. Police records show a case registered against him in Nashik City, Maharashtra. The implicated bank account faces 15 complaints from states including Maharashtra (3), Andhra Pradesh (1), Delhi (2), Gujarat (1), Telangana (2), Uttar Pradesh (2), Himachal Pradesh (1), Kerala (1), and Karnataka (2). Around Rs 1.30 crore in suspicious transactions flowed through these accounts.
A case has been registered at the Cyber Crime police station in Gautam Buddh Nagar. Interrogations continue to uncover his accomplices and broader network. Noida cyber police urge the public to ignore unsolicited investment offers on WhatsApp or calls, avoid clicking unknown links, and never share bank details with strangers. Report cyber fraud immediately to helpline 1930 or the nearest cyber cell.