Cyber Thieves Dupe Pune Youth of Rs 20.9 Lakh Posing as Narcotics Control Bureau Officials
Katraj, 16th December 2024: A youth from the Bharati Vidyapeeth area was duped of ₹20.9 lakh by cyber thieves who posed as officials of the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB). The scammers threatened the victim with legal action in a fake drug case, compelling him to transfer the money to avoid arrest.
The youth, a resident of the Katraj area, lodged a complaint at the Bharati Vidyapeeth police station. According to the complaint, the incident began on October 29 when the cyber thieves contacted him, claiming he was under investigation for drug-related activities. Pretending to be NCB officials, they demanded immediate payment to prevent arrest.
Panicked by the threats, the victim deposited ₹20.9 lakh into the bank accounts provided by the scammers in multiple installments. However, the thieves contacted him again, raising further suspicions. Realizing he had been deceived, the youth approached the Bharati Vidyapeeth police and filed a complaint.
Police Inspector Sangita Devkate from the Crime Branch is investigating the case. Authorities have noted an alarming rise in such incidents where scammers exploit citizens by creating fear of legal action.
Stock Market Investment Scams: ₹29 Lakh Lost in Two Cases
In another instance of cyber fraud, two individuals, including a woman, were cheated of ₹29 lakh in separate incidents related to stock market investment scams. Both cases have been registered at the Chatushrungi police station.
A woman from Pashan fell prey to scammers who promised high returns on stock market investments, leading her to lose ₹19.66 lakh. Similarly, a resident of Aundh was defrauded of ₹9.1 lakh using the same ruse.
These incidents highlight the growing threat of cybercrime in Pune, with scammers adopting new tactics to exploit unsuspecting citizens. Police have urged the public to remain vigilant, avoid sharing sensitive information, and verify the authenticity of any financial requests or threats they receive.
