Two suspected cyber fraudsters have been arrested in Saharanpur for allegedly duping a judge of ₹23.99 lakh on the pretext of arranging a Haj pilgrimage, police said. The accused were associated with a Lucknow-based firm named Al Fahad Tourism Company, which allegedly collected the money online but failed to make any travel arrangements.
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Money Collected for Haj Arrangements
According to cyber crime police, the accused promised to facilitate the pilgrimage and received the payment online. Police said the firm later began avoiding contact after failing to provide the promised services.
A complaint was lodged at the cyber crime police station after the judge realised he had been cheated. Police said the firm did not possess any valid licence for organising such travel services.
Two Lucknow Residents Arrested
Following directions from Senior Superintendent of Police Abhinandan Singh, a cyber crime team led by Inspector Indresh Singh launched an investigation into the case.
Police arrested Osama Rashidi and Ejaz Ahmad, both residents of Lucknow. Officials said a case had been registered against four accused, including the company’s director Aamir Rashidi and another associate.
Search Continues for Remaining Suspects
Police said efforts are underway to arrest the remaining suspects and recover the defrauded amount. The arrested accused are being produced before a court, and further legal proceedings are underway.
Officials have advised the public to remain cautious against cyber fraud, avoid sharing OTPs with unknown persons and report such incidents immediately on the cyber helpline number 1930.
