Rajasthan News : Cyber Police Bust Fake Escort Service Scam, Arrests Four Accused in Dungarpur
Dungarpur, January 18 In a significant breakthrough under the Operation Cyber Shield, the Cyber Police of Dungarpur district has dismantled a fake escort service racket that defrauded people across the country. The police arrested four individuals and detained a minor who were allegedly involved in duping victims by promising escort services. The arrests came following a meticulous investigation led by District Superintendent of Police Monika Sen, aimed at cracking down on cyber fraud.
The police seized 10 mobile phones, multiple fake SIM cards, and a laptop from the accused, who were using these devices to execute their illicit activities. The accused have been taken into custody, and further investigations are underway.
The Modus Operandi
Cyber Police Station in-charge, Girdhari Lal, revealed in an official statement that the arrests were made after receiving a tip-off on January 17. The complaint reported that a group of youths near Indauda village was running a fake escort service scheme. Acting promptly, the police formed a joint team consisting of Cyber Police, Cyber Cell, and Dovda Police Station officers, which raided the location and apprehended the suspects.
Initial investigations revealed that the accused lured victims by posting fraudulent advertisements on various social media platforms and websites. They used fake SIM cards and circulated explicit photos to unsuspecting individuals via WhatsApp, Telegram, Instagram, and Facebook. Victims were then coerced into transferring money to multiple fake accounts in exchange for promised services, which were never delivered.
The Accused
The arrested individuals have been identified as:
- Jitendra, son of Jagji Patidar (Indauda resident).
- Vinkesh, son of Tejeng Patidar.
- Devendra, son of Dhoolji Patidar.
- Dinesh, son of Dhoolji Patidar.
Additionally, a minor involved in the racket was detained and is being processed under relevant juvenile laws.
Nationwide Fraud Network
The Cyber Police confirmed that the arrested individuals had 16 cases registered against them across various states in India. The gang is believed to have swindled victims out of approximately โน19.43 lakh through their fake escort service advertisements.
The investigation also uncovered that the accused used fake SIM cards and accounts to conceal their identities and mislead law enforcement agencies.
Operation Cyber Shield: A Success Story
The arrests mark another milestone in Dungarpurโs ongoing Operation Cyber Shield, which aims to combat the rising tide of cybercrime in the region. According to SP Monika Sen, five cases of cyber fraud have been registered under this initiative, resulting in the arrest of 44 cybercriminals so far.
The campaign has led to the recovery of:
- 50 mobile phones
- 96 SIM cards
- 18 debit cards
- A car
- One laptop and a Wi-Fi dongle
The operation has significantly disrupted cybercriminal networks in the region, ensuring that justice is served to the victims.
Public Advisory
The Cyber Police have urged citizens to remain vigilant against online scams, particularly those involving unsolicited messages or suspicious advertisements. Individuals are advised to:
- Avoid engaging with unknown contacts on social media or messaging platforms.
- Refrain from sharing personal or financial information online.
- Report suspicious activities to the local police or cybercrime helpline.
