Noida’s cyber crime squad struck a major blow to digital fraudsters by arresting a Rampur resident accused of orchestrating a multi-crore scam via deceptive WhatsApp messages. Posing as a savvy online business mentor, the culprit promised sky-high profits from virtual stores, fleecing victims nationwide.
The operation came to light after numerous complaints flooded police stations. Using cutting-edge surveillance and intelligence inputs, officers tracked down Shahnawaz from Naungawa village in Rampur’s Shahzad Nagar area. The raid yielded crucial evidence: one smartphone, four debit cards, identity documents including Aadhaar, PAN, and driving license, plus extensive call records spanning 26 pages.
Detailed probes uncovered his modus operandi—distributing fake links that mimicked legitimate investment portals. Small initial payouts hooked victims, paving the way for heftier deposits that disappeared overnight. Shahnawaz doubled as a ‘mule’ account provider, earning cuts from fellow scammers.
His shady dealings extend beyond Uttar Pradesh; a prior FIR in Nashik highlights his footprint. The tainted accounts linked to 15 FIRs across 10 states, channeling over Rs 1.3 crore in illicit gains. Gautam Buddh Nagar’s cyber crime station has booked him, with questioning underway to dismantle the syndicate.
In a public advisory, police warn against WhatsApp investment lures, suspicious links, and sharing financial info. Cyber fraud victims should dial 1930 or visit local cyber units without delay. This arrest underscores the relentless pursuit of online predators preying on public trust.