A major economic fraud has surfaced in Kanpur, where a trader ordered 35 tons of used edible oil, only to receive water instead. The swindlers successfully siphoned off a total of Rs 34 lakh. The victim filed a complaint at Juhi Police Station, and authorities have launched a search for the accused.
Social Media Used as a Tool for Fraud
Anil Kumar Dixit, a resident of Yashodanagar P Block and manager at Navgrah Edible Oils, contacted South India-based suppliers through a social media acquaintance. In June 2025, he connected with Juhi residents Nitin and Suresh Adukia, who claimed to act as commission agents for used edible oil and fatty acid suppliers, promising goods at below-market rates.
Subsequently, Shivam Khandelwal, the proprietor of Dixit’s firm, placed an order for 35 tons of oil at Rs 92.5 per kg and dispatched driver Pira Ram to collect the consignment. On October 29, the consignment was reportedly loaded, and on October 31, Rs 34 lakh was transferred to the bank account specified by the fraudsters.
Fake Documents Heighten the Deception
The criminals sent fake weight slips and e-way bills over WhatsApp to gain the trader’s trust. The driver suspected discrepancies in the consignment’s weight and arranged a separate weighment, revealing only 24 tons of material. On arrival in Kanpur, testing confirmed that the delivered substance was water, not oil.
Juhi Station Officer confirmed that a FIR has been registered against the accused, and their search is underway.
Evolving Methods in Trade Fraud
Experts note that this case highlights new techniques being used to defraud traders. Fraudsters are increasingly leveraging social media and digital platforms to exploit trust, making even seasoned businessmen vulnerable.
The incident also underlines the risks of large-scale transactions without prior verification of delivery, payment channels, and quality assurance.
Past Incidents and Rising Fraud in Kanpur
Kanpur and surrounding areas have witnessed a surge in fraud and adulterated product cases in recent years. Notable examples include:
- Gold and bullion traders duped via WhatsApp scams, losing millions
- Confiscation of counterfeit edible oils and Mobil oil
- Interstate networks distributing adulterated petrol and diesel exposed by STF
These cases indicate that trade fraud is no longer limited to large investors, and even small and medium enterprises face significant threats.
Police and Administrative Measures
Following the complaint and verification of fake documents, the police have registered an FIR and intensified the search for the culprits. Authorities have advised traders to exercise caution and conduct thorough checks before engaging in online or digital transactions.
Experts emphasize that delivery verification, payment confirmation, and product quality checks are critical before completing high-value trade deals.
