How Have 1 Crore Investors Been Duped of Rs 22,552 Crore in Maharashtra Over the Last Decade?
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Synopsis
Maharashtra's Chief Minister reveals shocking statistics about investment frauds, with over 1 crore investors scammed out of Rs 22,552 crore in the last ten years. This alarming trend highlights the rising threat of cyber crimes in the state. Are adequate measures being taken to protect investors?
Key Takeaways
- Over one crore investors have been victimized in Maharashtra.
- Investment frauds have led to losses of Rs 22,552 crore.
- Cyber crimes are on the rise, with significant cases reported.
- The government has set up Financial Intelligence Units to combat fraud.
- Awareness campaigns are being conducted to educate citizens about cyber threats.
Mumbai, July 2 (NationPress) In light of escalating cyber and digital crimes, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who also serves as the state's Home Minister, informed the state council on Wednesday that over one crore investors have fallen victim to scams amounting to Rs 22,552 crore over the past decade, excluding Mumbai.
According to the Economic Offences Wing of the Mumbai Police, a staggering 2.71 lakh investors were deceived, losing Rs 2,95,451 crore in various schemes during the last ten years. From 2016 to May 2025, around 46,321 cyber crime cases were recorded, resulting in losses of Rs 11,033.97 crore.
In response to a query from Congress legislator Satej Patil and others, CM Fadnavis revealed that the Maharashtra National Cyber Crime Reporting portal received 58,157 complaints in 2024, amounting to Rs 1,187.46 crore.
In Mumbai, 31,583 complaints were lodged, alongside 13,971 in Pune and 12,582 in Thane.
Additionally, in 2025, the portal documented 540 complaints.
CM Fadnavis stated that there are currently 50 operational cyber police stations throughout the state. To proactively alert citizens about fraudulent schemes, the government has set up a Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) within the Mumbai Police Commissionerate, with similar units established in other jurisdictions.
The government has equipped cyber labs and police stations with modern software and hardware to enhance the investigation of cyber crimes.
Training programs for police officers and constables on detecting cyber crimes have been initiated, and a modern laboratory has been created to support these efforts.
A wide-ranging awareness campaign is underway to inform citizens, students, teachers, and administrative personnel about the risks of cyber and digital crimes.
Citizens are encouraged via social media and other channels to stay vigilant against potential cyber threats, according to the Chief Minister.
In a related query from BJP legislator Parinay Fuke, CM Fadnavis disclosed that 303 offences related to mephedrone, commonly known as 'Meow Meow', were reported in 2022, with 642 in 2023 and 545 in 2024.
Point of View
I recognize the pressing issue of investment fraud impacting many communities in Maharashtra. The statistics presented by CM Fadnavis reveal a critical area of concern that demands immediate attention from both the government and law enforcement agencies. It is imperative for the state to strengthen its cybercrime response to ensure investor safety and maintain public trust.
NationPress
10/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What measures is the Maharashtra government taking to combat cyber crimes?
The government has established 50 operational cyber police stations, created Financial Intelligence Units, and provided modern technology for investigations, along with training programs for law enforcement.
How many investors have been affected by scams in Maharashtra?
Over one crore investors have reported being duped out of Rs 22,552 crore in various investment schemes over the past decade.
What is the role of the Maharashtra National Cyber Crime Reporting portal?
The portal serves as a platform for citizens to report cyber crimes, with a significant number of complaints received, indicating the scale of the issue.
