New Jersey/New Delhi: A major international cyber gold scam network has been busted in the United States, leading to the arrest of Indian-origin 25-year-old Nigan Bhatt. Authorities allege that the accused was part of an organised fraud syndicate that specifically targeted elderly citizens and cheated them of gold and cash through sophisticated psychological manipulation.
According to officials, the accused was arrested just as he arrived to collect a gold consignment worth approximately $800,000 (around ₹6.6 crore). The coordinated operation was carried out by multiple law enforcement agencies across different U.S. states.
Elderly Victims Targeted Through Fear-Based Fraud
Investigations revealed that the network primarily targeted senior citizens. Victims were contacted via call centres by individuals posing as bank officials, government agents, or law enforcement officers.
They were falsely informed that their bank accounts or social security benefits had been frozen and that they needed to hand over gold or valuables immediately to “secure” their assets. Under fear and pressure, many victims reportedly handed over their life savings and precious belongings.
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Internationally Spread Criminal Network
Authorities found that the racket was not limited to the United States. Investigations suggest that the network has international links, with call centres allegedly operating from overseas locations, from where fraudulent calls were made to victims.
Officials also discovered that the stolen gold was being laundered through jewellery stores and other channels, making it difficult to trace the original source of the illegal funds.
Coordinated Action by Law Enforcement Agencies
The case involved coordinated action by multiple local and state-level agencies. Investigators confirmed that the network is spread across several U.S. states and may involve multiple additional suspects.
Authorities stated that an intelligence-led operation is underway to identify and arrest other individuals connected to the syndicate. Further arrests are expected as the investigation progresses.
Previous Similar Cases Reported
According to investigators, a similar case was reported in January 2026 in the U.S, where two jewellery stores were raided for allegedly assisting in laundering fraud-linked gold.
In those cases, stolen gold was melted and converted into new jewellery, which was then sold in the market to conceal the illegal source of funds.
Official Warning to the Public
Law enforcement agencies have issued a strong warning to citizens, stating that no government agency, bank, or law enforcement body ever demands gold, cash, or gift cards over phone calls.
Officials urged people to remain cautious, avoid such calls, disconnect immediately, and contact official bank helplines or authorities directly.
Investigation Ongoing, Bigger Network Expected to Be Revealed
The interrogation of the accused is currently underway, while agencies are working to identify the full scale of the network and its funding channels.
Authorities believe this is a large, organised cyber gold fraud syndicate with connections across multiple countries and U.S. states. Officials expect further major revelations in the coming days as the investigation continues.
