How Did an Ahmedabad Woman Lure Job-Seekers to Bangkok for Cyber Fraud?
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Synopsis
In a shocking incident, Kinjal Shah from Ahmedabad was arrested for luring unsuspecting job-seekers to Bangkok, only to ensnare them in a cyber fraud operation. This case sheds light on the dangers of job scams and the increasing sophistication of cybercriminals. What happened next is a harrowing tale of deceit and exploitation.
Key Takeaways
- Kinjal Shah was arrested for luring job-seekers.
- Victims were promised jobs in Bangkok.
- They were subjected to cyber fraud training.
- Victims were extorted for money to return home.
- Awareness is crucial for preventing job scams.
Ahmedabad, Aug 18 (NationPress) The Cyber Crime Branch of Ahmedabad has apprehended Kinjal Shah, who allegedly deceived an individual into traveling to Bangkok under the guise of job opportunities, only to entrap him in a cyber fraud scheme.
Shah, who operates a visa office in Vadodara, was reportedly in contact with Abhishek Singh in Dubai, a key player claiming to be an employee of an Information Technology (IT) firm.
As per police reports, Kinjal Shah assured the victim of a position in Bangkok and directed him to liaise with Abhishek through video calls regarding work permits and visas.
Abhishek, masquerading as an IT professional, held interviews via video calls with other Chinese associates to gain the victim's trust. Once the victim was convinced, he was summoned to Bangkok on a tourist visa, where he was instructed to take selfies with strangers at the airport and surrender his passport.
The victim’s passport was confiscated, and he was unlawfully transported across the Thai border into Myanmar, initially by trekking 15–20 kilometers through forests, followed by car and boat, until reaching the K.K. Park area. There, he allegedly underwent training in cyber fraud for 33 days, with a stipulation that he could not return to India until a payment of Rs 3.5 lakh was made.
The victim’s uncle in India facilitated the payment through various UPI accounts, after which the passport was returned, allowing the victim to safely return to India. Police identified Abhishek Singh, a former banker, as currently associated with a Chinese gang in Dubai.
Kinjal Shah was reportedly planning to send three individuals as part of this operation.
Authorities have also issued warnings regarding several social media advertisements run by Chinese gangs targeting unsuspecting victims.
ACP Hardik Makadia of the Ahmedabad Cyber Crime Branch confirmed the arrest and stated that the investigation is ongoing.
In another incident in Mandvi, Kutch district, a 35-year-old man was swindled out of Rs 65,000 by extortionists posing as police officers.
The victim, Kanti Bhudia, was enticed under the pretext of hiring masonry workers and subsequently blackmailed by the impostors.
In an even more alarming case, a honey trap led to the suicide of a businessman in Kutch. The accused, Manisha Goswami, allegedly orchestrated a scheme that culminated in the victim's death, underscoring the severe repercussions of such fraudulent schemes.
Point of View
It's imperative to acknowledge the rising prevalence of job scams, particularly those targeting vulnerable individuals seeking opportunities abroad. The investigative efforts of the Ahmedabad Cyber Crime Branch highlight the need for heightened awareness and vigilance against such fraudulent activities. We stand committed to shedding light on these issues and ensuring our audience is informed and protected.
NationPress
20/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What charges were brought against Kinjal Shah?
Kinjal Shah was arrested for allegedly luring individuals to Bangkok under false job pretenses and involving them in a cyber fraud racket.
How were the victims recruited?
Victims were enticed through promises of job opportunities and were instructed to communicate with accomplices via video calls.
What happened to the victims in Bangkok?
Victims had their passports seized and were trained in cyber fraud while being prevented from returning until a ransom was paid.
What should potential job-seekers be aware of?
Job-seekers should be cautious of unsolicited job offers from overseas and verify the legitimacy of employers before engaging.
How can one report such scams?
Individuals can report suspected job scams to local law enforcement or cyber crime units to prevent further victimization.
