Delhi Police Bust Fake Adoption Racket Using Forged Medical Records

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Delhi Police dismantle a fraudulent child adoption scheme involving counterfeit medical documentation.

Overview of the Fraudulent Scheme

Delhi Police have dismantled a fraudulent child adoption scheme involving counterfeit medical documentation. Two individuals from Bareilly in Uttar Pradesh have been detained for orchestrating a deception that targeted families seeking to adopt children. The suspects allegedly misrepresented themselves as representatives of a legitimate adoption organization, deceiving potential parents through a series of fabricated documents and financial demands.

The Scheme’s Operation

The operation began after a 30-year-old woman from Delhi’s Burari region sought adoption services online and contacted a number linked to legal adoption procedures. The individual, identified as Sachin, claimed a male infant would soon be available and assured the woman that all processes would be conducted lawfully. Over time, the accused requested payments under various justifications, including registration fees, booking charges, transportation costs, and administrative expenses.

Creating Credibility Through Fraud

To maintain credibility, they provided falsified NGO documentation and fabricated ultrasound reports, creating the appearance of a formal adoption process. The scheme collapsed when the victim requested to meet the child’s biological mother, prompting the accused to delay and eventually cease communication after payments ceased.

Reporting and Investigation

The woman reported the incident via the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal, leading to the filing of an e-FIR at the Delhi Police Cyber Crime Station. Investigators traced the fraud by analyzing bank records, IP logs, call detail records, and IMEI data, which involved reviewing nearly 100 phone numbers before identifying the suspects in Bareilly.

Arrests and Evidence Recovered

A coordinated operation resulted in the arrest of Sachin and his associate, Rakesh, on July 31. During interrogations, it was revealed that one suspect was responsible for producing counterfeit documents, including NGO receipts, ultrasound reports, and medical paperwork designed to mimic legitimate records. The recovered evidence included mobile devices, SIM cards, banking documents, debit and PAN cards, and 14 rubber stamps allegedly belonging to medical facilities.

Legal Framework and Expert Advice

Adoption in India is regulated exclusively by the Central Adoption Resource Authority, a body under the Juvenile Justice Act that oversees licensed agencies and verifies all procedural steps. Any adoption conducted outside this framework lacks legal validity, leaving victims without recourse once payments are made. Fraudsters exploited this gap by positioning themselves as a shortcut to bypass the complex and time-consuming official process.

Cybercrime Specialist’s Warning

Experts highlight that emotionally charged scenarios, such as adoption, are frequently targeted by cybercriminals using social engineering tactics to manipulate victims. A cybercrime specialist and former IPS officer emphasized the importance of engaging only with authorized government agencies and verifying organizational credentials before sharing personal information or making payments.

Public Awareness and Ongoing Investigation

Delhi Police have urged the public to report suspicious requests for advance payments or unfamiliar documentation related to adoption through the National Cyber Crime Helpline at 1930 or the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal. The investigation continues to identify other potential participants in the network and affected individuals.