Police in Hardoi have registered a case against five individuals after villagers alleged they were cheated of nearly ₹50 lakh through an investment scheme that promised monthly returns of up to 10 percent. The action was taken on the basis of a court order after complainants claimed that initial payments were made to build confidence, but the company’s online portal later became inaccessible and returns stopped.
The case is linked to Bahauuddinpur Majra Karimpur village in the Pali area. Complainant Om Prakash alleged that he was introduced to the investment plan in December 2022 by Jai Prakash Maurya, who reportedly described it as a secure and profitable opportunity linked to a private company.
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High Returns Allegedly Promised
According to the complaint, Om Prakash was told that deposits made with the company would generate monthly returns of around 10 percent. He initially invested ₹10,000 on a trial basis and allegedly received the promised return, which increased his confidence in the scheme.
Encouraged by the initial payment, he later deposited an additional ₹1.40 lakh. The complaint further alleges that in August 2025, he handed over ₹10 lakh in cash to individuals associated with the company after being assured that the investment would continue to generate regular returns.
The complainants alleged that the scheme was presented as a systematic and long-term investment opportunity. Through Om Prakash and others, several residents of the village and nearby areas reportedly became associated with the plan.
Portal Shut, Payments Stopped
According to the complaint, individuals including Anoop, Vijay Lakshmi, Jawahar, Vivek, Ramchela, Khushiram, Devaram and Ramji also invested money in the scheme. Collectively, investors are alleged to have deposited approximately ₹50 lakh.
The investors were reportedly given user IDs through an online system that allowed them to view investment-related information. The complainants said this created the impression that the company was operating in a legitimate and organised manner.
They alleged that returns or interest payments were made for some time, further strengthening trust in the scheme. However, around June 2025, the company’s online portal reportedly stopped functioning and all payments ceased. Attempts to contact company representatives allegedly failed to produce any satisfactory response.
Investigation Into Money Trail
After suspecting fraud, the affected investors approached legal authorities. They alleged that the accused collectively persuaded people to invest large sums by promising exceptionally high returns and long-term financial benefits.
Following a petition before the court, directions were issued for legal action. Police then registered a case against five individuals and began a detailed investigation into the allegations.
Investigators are examining banking transactions, company records, financial documents and other evidence connected to the case. Authorities are also reviewing how funds were collected, where the money was routed and whether additional investors may have been affected. Further action will depend on the evidence gathered during the ongoing probe.
