WhatsApp Business Deal Lures ₹20.70 Lakh Cyber Fraud, Two Arrested in India

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Cybercrime Investigation in Odisha’s Sambalpur District

A recent cybercrime investigation in Odisha’s Sambalpur district has led to the arrest of two individuals in connection with a ₹20.70 lakh (approximately $25,000 USD) fraud scheme.

Modus Operandi of the Fraudsters

The accused, Jagdish Kumar and Ram Ashre, allegedly posed as buyers of agricultural equipment to establish business contacts with their victim, gathering information about his enterprise from social media platforms.

The fraudsters contacted the victim, posing as legitimate buyers, and placed a fake bulk order for 50 agricultural reaper machines. To gain the victim’s trust, they sent advance payments into his account, which were later followed by a series of psychological pressure tactics.

The accused created a sense of urgency, impersonating influential individuals and citing emergency situations, to coerce the victim into withdrawing and transferring funds.

According to the investigation, a total of ₹20,70,005 was deposited into the victim’s account through 12 separate transactions between August 5 and August 14, 2025.

Financial Transactions and Money Trail

The accused then pressured the victim into withdrawing approximately ₹13 lakh in cash, which was handed over to them. The remaining amount was transferred online to another account, and the victim was persuaded to transfer an additional ₹7 lakh from his personal savings.

The cybercrime gang used a multi-layered strategy to carry out the fraud, involving business profit incentives, fear tactics, and impersonation. They also employed mule bank accounts to obscure the financial trail, depositing funds into these accounts before transferring them to other accounts in multiple stages.

Investigation and Arrests

The investigation has led to the seizure of relevant bank records and digital evidence, and efforts are underway to identify other members of the network.

Authorities have warned the public to be cautious of online business deal offers and to verify unknown proposals before accepting them.

The police have emphasized the importance of public awareness in preventing cyber fraud, particularly in cases involving large orders, advance payments, or emergency money transfers.

The arrested individuals are currently being interrogated, and investigators are working to uncover the broader operation of the racket.