Faridabad: A major cyber fraud involving a fake investment mobile application has been exposed in Bihar’s East Champaran district. Police have arrested the alleged mastermind, Sangam Kumar, from Faridabad in Haryana. He is accused of developing a fraudulent Android application named ‘Agni’ and using it to lure youths and small investors with promises of unusually high returns.
According to investigators, more than ₹1 crore has surfaced in the preliminary probe, though the actual amount is suspected to be significantly higher. Authorities believe the fraud network may extend beyond Bihar, and further investigations are underway to trace its wider links.
The case was registered at the cyber police station following a complaint by a resident of the Raxaul area. The complainant alleged that the ‘Agni’ app promised attractive returns on activities such as mobile recharges, electricity bill payments, and watching advertisements. Investors were assured that their money would multiply within a short period.
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Trust Built with Initial Payments
During the investigation, it emerged that the accused and his associates initially made small payouts to investors to build trust. The app featured an in-built digital wallet where users deposited money. Early transactions appeared successful, encouraging victims to invest larger sums.
Subsequently, users were enticed with promises of cars, bikes, and other expensive gifts for making higher investments. Once a substantial amount had been collected from multiple investors, the app was abruptly shut down, and the accused went incommunicado.
Posed as the Company’s CEO
Police sources said that Sangam Kumar introduced himself as the CEO of the ‘Agni’ app to enhance credibility. The gang allegedly organized seminars and presentations in different cities to attract young investors. During these events, the app was portrayed as a fast-growing digital startup with high-profit potential.
Investigators revealed that the accused used professional PowerPoint presentations, forged registration documents, and fabricated success stories to convince people to invest. Several victims reportedly brought in friends and relatives, which helped the fraud expand rapidly.
Tracked Through Technical Surveillance
Authorities traced the accused to Faridabad through technical surveillance and scrutiny of banking transactions. A special team was formed to conduct a raid, leading to his arrest.
Police are now interrogating him to identify other gang members, bank accounts used, payment gateways involved, and server details. Investigators are also examining whether the defrauded funds were transferred to multiple accounts or converted into other forms, including digital assets.
Possible Links Across States
Officials suspect that the network may have operated in multiple states. Similar complaints may surface as the investigation progresses. If the fraud’s scale turns out to be extensive, the probe could be expanded further.
The technical development of the app, server hosting details, and data backups are currently under forensic examination to determine the total amount involved and the exact number of victims.
Hope for Victims
Following the arrest, victims have expressed hope for justice. Several affected individuals have begun approaching the police with transaction records and investment details.
Cyber experts have cautioned the public against investing in mobile applications promising unusually high or guaranteed returns without proper verification. They advise checking company registration, regulatory approvals, and authenticity before making any financial commitments.
For now, the police are focused on uncovering the entire network and arresting other accused persons. More revelations and possible arrests are expected in the coming days as the investigation continues.
About the author — Suvedita Nath is a science student with a growing interest in cybercrime and digital safety. She writes on online activity, cyber threats, and technology-driven risks. Her work focuses on clarity, accuracy, and public awareness.
