Cybercrime Unit Arrests Two Accused in Sophisticated WhatsApp Fraud
Kannur: A Kerala-based doctor was defrauded of Rs 4.43 crore in an elaborate online trading scam. The Kannur City Cyber Crime Police arrested two individuals, Mehbubasha Farooq and Rijaz, from Chennai in connection with the case.
Victim Lured via WhatsApp Group Promoting Fake Trading Platform
The scam began when the doctor was added to a WhatsApp group promoting an online share trading plan promising high returns. The accused persuaded the victim to invest large sums in a fake platform named Upstock under the guise of a “wealth profit plan.”
Multiple Bank Accounts Used to Transfer Defrauded Money
Police traced around Rs 40 lakh deposited in accounts linked to the accused, and identified 18 additional accounts used to siphon off funds. Part of the money was also transferred abroad. The investigation into the broader network is ongoing.
Victim Could Not Withdraw Funds, Prompting Police Complaint
Though the trading app showed profits, the victim was unable to withdraw money, leading him to file a complaint on June 25. Authorities confirmed no terror angle was involved.
Cyber Police Traced Financial and Communication Links to Arrest Accused
The cybercrime team tracked the accused via bank account details and mobile phones, leading to their arrest. Investigations continue to uncover other possible victims and links in the fraud.
