New Delhi | Delhi Police has uncovered an alleged cyber fraud racket with interstate and international links, arresting a foreign national and his live-in partner for allegedly duping women through matrimonial websites. Investigators claim the accused used fake identities and fabricated relationships to gain the trust of victims before extracting money under various pretexts.
The arrested individuals have been identified as Kouadio Victor Nda (36), a native of Ivory Coast, and Anei Konyak (30), a resident of Nagaland. According to investigators, Nda had allegedly overstayed in India after the expiry of his visa. The duo was apprehended from a rented accommodation in Hastsal Vihar, Uttam Nagar, in west Delhi.
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Police said the accused were active on matrimonial platforms, where they allegedly approached women and presented themselves as wealthy professionals or individuals working abroad. After building emotional trust over time, they reportedly proposed marriage and later sought money from victims on various grounds. In several cases, the requests were allegedly linked to customs charges, gifts, emergency expenses, travel requirements or other fabricated situations.
Investigators further alleged that money obtained through the fraud was routed through multiple bank accounts and debit cards. Konyak was reportedly assigned the task of withdrawing cash from different ATMs to avoid attracting attention. Police believe the arrangement was designed to reduce suspicion that might arise if a foreign national conducted the transactions directly.
The case came to light during a special operation targeting cyber fraud networks. Authorities received intelligence suggesting that foreign nationals were involved in cybercrime activities and were using mule accounts to move and withdraw illicit funds. Based on surveillance and technical analysis, investigators identified the suspects’ location and carried out a raid, leading to their arrest.
During the search, police recovered four debit cards linked to suspected mule accounts, one laptop, five mobile phones and a passport. Preliminary verification reportedly revealed that some of the seized debit cards were connected to a cyber fraud complaint registered in Assam’s Dibrugarh district. Examination of the electronic devices also led investigators to additional bank accounts and possible links to other fraud cases.
Officials said Konyak’s role allegedly extended beyond cash withdrawals. She is suspected of contacting victims directly and helping build trust as part of the operation. Investigators believe the syndicate functioned in an organized manner, with specific responsibilities assigned to different members.
Renowned cybercrime expert and former IPS officer Prof. Triveni Singh said matrimonial and online dating scams often rely on emotional manipulation and social engineering. According to him, fraudsters typically establish a personal connection with victims before fabricating emergencies or financial needs to solicit money. He advised users of matrimonial and dating platforms to verify identities thoroughly and avoid transferring funds to individuals they have met only online.
A case has been registered under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and immigration-related laws. Investigators are now working to identify other members of the network, determine the number of victims involved and establish the total amount allegedly siphoned through the operation. Police said further arrests are possible as the investigation progresses and digital evidence continues to be examined.
