चंडीगढ़ साइबर क्राइम थाने ने ऑनलाइन इन्वेस्टमेंट फ्रॉड के एक आरोपी को गिरफ्तार किया

Cyber Crime Police Station, UT Chandigarh has arrested one accused person in connection with fake online investment fraud. The case was registered under FIR No. 45 dated 23.04.2025 under Sections 316(2), 318(4), 319(2), 336(3), 338, 340(2), and 61(2) of the BNS, 2023. The operation was led by Ms. Geetanjali Khandelwal, IPS, SP-Cyber, UT Chandigarh, with guidance from Sh. A. Venkatesh, DSP Cyber Crime & IT, and supervision of Inspector Ms. Eram Rizvi, SHO, PS-Cyber Crime, Sector 17, Chandigarh. The arrests mark an important step in curbing rising cyber fraud cases in the region, showcasing coordination and swift action of the PS- Cyber Crime. Details of the Accused: Anand kumar Shrivastav S/o Ajit kumar Shrivastav from Vadodara, Gujarat, age 27 years. CASE SUMMARY The case was registered on the complaint of a Chandigarh resident who reported being duped of ₹23,76,832 through an online investment fraud operated via Telegram under the name SPREADEXGLOBALLTD. The complainant invested money in multiple accounts after being lured with promises of high returns. Although initial profits were shown, withdrawal requests were subsequently denied, resulting in substantial financial loss. Investigation – During investigation, it was found that major amount of the defrauded funds were transferred to a UCO Bank account (Layer-1), registered in the name of M/s Saikrupa Laundry, Proprietor Anand kumar Shrivastav, resident of Vadodara, Gujarat. A police team from Cyber Crime Police Station, Chandigarh, conducted a raid with local police with help from Gujarat police. Accused Anand kumar Shrivastav (27) was arrested after being informed of the grounds of arrest. His arrest information was conveyed to his family. During interrogation, the accused disclosed that he opened the said bank account and handed over the account kit to an associate in exchange for monetary consideration. He admitted that he was aware that illegal funds would be routed through the account and that he received commission on transactions conducted through it. He further revealed that the account was used to channel fraudulent funds obtained from victims through online investment scams. The accused has also provided information regarding other associates involved in the fraud. Further investigation is underway to identify and arrest additional accused persons and to trace the complete money trail. Advisory for the Public: Do not trust online investment ads on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, or other platforms that promise guaranteed or unusually high returns. Do Not Share Personal Problems with Unknown Persons Online Fraudsters often exploit emotional vulnerability. Avoid sharing personal or family issues with unknown individuals contacted through social media or messaging platforms. Be Alert to Fear-Based Demands Any demand for money accompanied by threats, fear, or claims of supernatural danger is a strong indicator of fraud and should be immediately reported. Verify Identity Before Making Payments Never make online payments or transfer money to individuals claiming to be tantriks, maulanas, or spiritual healers without proper verification from authentic sources. Never share banking details, OTPs, debit/credit card numbers, or internet banking credentials with anyone, even if they appear legitimate. Do not transfer money to unknown bank accounts or personal/firm accounts for investment purposes without proper verification. Pressure tactics are red flags—fraudsters often urge quick payments, saying offers are “limited time” or “about to expire.” Withdrawal restrictions are a common scam sign—demands for extra fees, taxes, or commissions before allowing withdrawals indicate fraud. Report cyber fraud immediately to the nearest Cyber Crime Police Station or at www.cybercrime.gov.in to increase chances of recovery.