TELANGANA: The arrest of the managing director of Falcon Invoice Discounting has pulled the curtain back on what investigators describe as a large-scale investment fraud, one that relied on fake invoices, digital platforms and the promise of swift, high returns to draw in thousands of depositors across India.
A Digital Investment Pitch Built on False Invoices
When the Crime Investigation Department (CID) of Telangana began examining complaints linked to Falcon Invoice Discounting, investigators say they found a business model that existed largely on screens. The firm, operated by M/s Capital Protection Force Private Limited, allegedly developed a fraudulent website and mobile application to project itself as a legitimate invoice discounting platform.
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According to investigators, the accused created fictitious invoice deals in the names of reputed multinational companies. These were presented to investors as short-term opportunities that would yield unusually high returns. The digital presentation, officials say, gave the appearance of a structured financial product, masking what they allege was a scheme built on fabricated documentation and false assurances.
The CID estimates that the firm collected approximately ₹4,215 crore from 7,056 depositors. Of these, investigators allege that 4,065 victims were cheated of around ₹792 crore.
Complaints, Transfers and a Widening Investigation
The case was initially registered at the Economic Offences Wing police station in Cyberabad after multiple investors approached the authorities with similar complaints. As the scale and complexity of the allegations became clearer, the investigation was transferred to the CID, Telangana.
Officials say the transfer allowed for a more coordinated probe into the money trail, the digital infrastructure used to solicit investments, and the roles of individuals involved in managing and promoting the scheme. The allegations include cheating, criminal breach of trust and conspiracy.
Investigators have indicated that tracing the movement of funds remains a central focus, particularly given the number of depositors and the volume of money allegedly raised.
Arrests, Assets and the Money Trail
So far, eleven accused have been arrested, including company directors, senior executives and a chartered accountant. All have been remanded to judicial custody. The CID says it has identified assets worth approximately ₹43 crore that are believed to be linked to the alleged proceeds of crime.
These assets include twelve plots of land, four luxury cars, ₹8 lakh in cash, 21 tolas of gold, shares valued at about ₹20 crore and bank balances of ₹8 crore. Officials said these are under process of attachment as the investigation continues.
Authorities have emphasized that efforts are ongoing to trace additional proceeds and to map how investor funds were routed, held or transferred.
The Managing Director’s Arrest and Official Warnings
Amardeep Kumar, the managing director of Falcon Invoice Discounting and described by investigators as the prime accused, was apprehended at Mumbai airport on January 5 after returning from Iran. His arrest was made pursuant to a Look Out Circular, and he is being brought to Hyderabad on transit remand for further investigation.
In statements following the arrest, police reiterated warnings to the public about online investment schemes that promise unrealistic returns. The CID has indicated that the investigation remains active, with further developments expected as authorities continue to follow the digital and financial trails left by the alleged scheme.
