Bikaner (Rajasthan): Police in Rajasthan’s Nokha have arrested the alleged mastermind behind a nationwide fraud in which fake fertiliser and pesticide companies were used to deceive traders into paying security deposits and advance payments for dealership rights. The accused was arrested from Kurukshetra in Haryana in connection with a ₹15.76 lakh fraud reported by a trader from Nokha. During preliminary interrogation, the accused allegedly admitted to committing fraud worth nearly ₹1 crore in multiple states. Investigators are now examining his bank accounts, digital transactions, associates and the wider network behind the operation.
According to the investigation, the accused is a native of Sona Arjunpur village in Uttar Pradesh’s Saharanpur district and was residing in Sector-7, Kurukshetra, at the time of his arrest. Police said he had created three fake entities operating under the names Gujarat Chemical and Fertilizer, United Agro Seeds and Fertilizers, and Saraswati Agro Fertilizer. Separate bank accounts were allegedly opened in the names of these firms to receive payments from unsuspecting traders.
Investigators found that the accused first recruited individuals online to pose as general managers and sales representatives. These representatives then approached fertiliser, seed and pesticide dealers with attractive offers of authorised dealerships and high-profit business opportunities. After gaining the victims’ confidence, they collected security deposits, dealership registration charges and advance payments for the promised supply of goods. Once the money was credited to the bank accounts, the accused allegedly switched off the registered mobile numbers and changed locations, making it difficult for victims to contact him.
The case came to light following a complaint filed by Nokha-based trader Premchand. According to the complaint, in July 2025, a person claiming to be an Area Sales Manager of the company offered him a distributorship. Believing the proposal to be genuine, the trader transferred a total of ₹15.76 lakh in multiple instalments as a security deposit and advance payment for fertiliser and pesticide supplies. However, neither the promised goods were delivered nor was the money refunded. The victim subsequently lodged a complaint with Nokha Police, leading to the registration of a criminal case and the launch of an investigation.
During the probe, police physically verified the office addresses provided by the alleged companies and found that no such businesses were operating from those locations. Investigators then analysed bank accounts, mobile numbers, call records, digital transactions and other technical evidence, eventually tracing the accused to Kurukshetra, where he was arrested.
Renowned cybercrime expert and former IPS officer Prof. Triveni Singh said that fraud involving fake dealerships and franchise offers has been increasing steadily. He noted that fraudsters often use company names resembling those of reputed businesses, forged documents and convincing commercial proposals to gain the trust of traders. He advised businesses to independently verify a company’s registration, GST details, official website, office address and bank account before making any security deposit or advance payment. Relying solely on phone calls or online documents before transferring large sums can expose businesses to significant financial losses.
During interrogation, the accused also allegedly admitted to cheating another victim in Hanumangarh of ₹7 lakh by promising a super dealership. Police are now investigating the full extent of the network, including the number of victims across different states, the total amount allegedly defrauded and the identities of other individuals involved. Financial records, bank transactions and digital devices are also being examined to uncover the complete modus operandi of the racket. Authorities said further arrests and legal action may follow as the investigation progresses.
About the author — Suvedita Nath is a science student with a growing interest in cybercrime and digital safety. She writes on online activity, cyber threats, and technology-driven risks. Her work focuses on clarity, accuracy, and public awareness.
