Indore. In a high-profile cyber fraud case, the Indore Crime Branch has arrested two suspects — Patras Kumar alias Kelis (Ferozepur, Punjab) and Saurabh Singh (Vapi, Gujarat) — in connection with an online scam that defrauded a local woman entrepreneur of ₹1.6 crore. Interrogation revealed that the criminal gang operated not from India, but from Laos, with India-based operatives supplying fake SIM cards and identities to facilitate the scam.
The incident highlights the increasing sophistication of cross-border cybercrime networks exploiting digital platforms and unsuspecting investors.
How the Fraud Unfolded
Last November, the 59-year-old victim received a phone call from individuals posing as officers of the CBI, ED, and local Crime Branch. For four days, she was virtually placed under digital duress, coerced into transferring funds into multiple bank accounts.
DCP Rajesh Kumar Tripathi of the Crime Branch explained that the perpetrators initially allowed small withdrawals to gain the victim’s trust. Gradually, they pressured her to deposit larger sums, using fake trading dashboards and fraudulent communications to create the illusion of legitimacy. Once significant amounts were transferred, access was blocked and contact with the victim severed.
The Laos Connection and Fake SIM Network
During questioning, the arrested suspects admitted that they procured SIM cards under fictitious names and supplied them to the gang’s Laos-based headquarters. These SIM cards were essential to executing transactions and communicating with victims across India.
Police investigations have revealed that the gang is engaged in multi-country cyber fraud, targeting investors in India and elsewhere. So far, 17 people have been arrested in connection with this case, with authorities now probing the wider network facilitating these operations.
Coordinated Raids and Forensic Investigation
The Crime Branch conducted raids in Punjab and Gujarat to apprehend the suspects. The ongoing investigation includes:
- Tracking the flow of fake SIM cards and identities
- Mapping connections to the Laos-based command center
- Conducting forensic audits of bank accounts and transaction trails
- Identifying potential links to other victims across India
Authorities emphasized that the case is not limited to the Indore victim alone and may uncover international money laundering and cybercrime networks.
Public Advisory and Awareness
The Cybercrime Wing has issued warnings to citizens:
- Exercise caution with social media, WhatsApp, or unsolicited investment offers
- Verify the credentials and licensing of any online trading platform
- Report cyber fraud immediately via the “1930” helpline or cybercrime.gov.in
Officials noted that gangs often promise quick, high returns to lure investors but operate entirely on deception, making vigilance essential.
Conclusion: Vigilance is the Best Defense
This case underscores the critical need for cyber awareness among investors. While law enforcement efforts have led to arrests and partial recovery, the most effective protection remains cautious investment and due diligence.
The Crime Branch continues to investigate the cross-border network, warning that further arrests and disclosures are likely as the probe unfolds.
