A retired SECL officer in Bilaspur lost ₹66 lakh in an alleged trading scam linked to a woman he met on Instagram alone.
How Did the Instagram Friendship Begin?
A retired South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL) officer from Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh, has allegedly been cheated of ₹66 lakh after developing an online friendship with a woman who persuaded him to invest in the American share market.
According to the complaint, 63-year-old retired officer Nikhil Singh, a resident of Mangal Vihar in Sarkanda, met a woman identifying herself as Tanisha Thakur on Instagram on June 2, 2026. The two subsequently exchanged mobile numbers and began communicating through WhatsApp.
During their conversations, the woman allegedly encouraged him to invest in American stock trading, promising substantial profits. Singh reportedly trusted her assurances and agreed to participate in the proposed investment scheme.
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How Was ₹66 Lakh Transferred?
Following the woman’s instructions, Singh allegedly registered on an online trading platform and began transferring money into different bank accounts. The complainant stated that he completed six transactions, transferring ₹17 lakh, ₹10 lakh, ₹10 lakh, ₹4 lakh, ₹10 lakh and ₹15 lakh. The payments collectively amounted to ₹66 lakh.
Initially, he expected to earn profits from the investments. However, when he attempted to withdraw his money and the earnings displayed on the platform, he was allegedly informed that additional payments were necessary.
The fraudsters reportedly demanded further money under the pretext of taxes and other charges before permitting withdrawals.
What Happened When He Requested His Money?
Singh allegedly became suspicious after being repeatedly asked to deposit additional amounts instead of receiving his investment proceeds. Despite transferring ₹66 lakh, he was unable to withdraw the money. He subsequently approached the authorities and lodged a complaint concerning the suspected investment fraud.
The incident involved an online acquaintance who allegedly gained the complainant’s confidence before introducing him to a trading arrangement that ultimately prevented him from accessing his funds.
What Should Investors Know About Such Scams?
Police are investigating the complaint and examining the circumstances surrounding the transactions. The case also highlights the risks associated with investment recommendations received from unfamiliar individuals through social media platforms.
Investors are advised to verify the legitimacy of trading platforms and check the registration details of investment advisers or intermediaries with the Securities and Exchange Board of India. Requests for additional taxes or fees before releasing investment proceeds should also be treated cautiously.
Individuals who suspect online financial fraud can contact the national cybercrime helpline at 1930 or register complaints through cybercrime.gov.in.
The Bilaspur case remains under investigation, with the allegations concerning the investment scheme yet to be established.
