Did Delhi Police Just Uncover a Major Cheating Syndicate Involving Nigerian Nationals?
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Synopsis
Delhi Police has made a major breakthrough by dismantling a transnational cheating syndicate. Six individuals, including two Nigerian nationals, were arrested for allegedly scamming citizens through fake lotteries and prize schemes. This operation sheds light on the complexities of global fraud and the ongoing battle against it.
Key Takeaways
- Delhi Police has arrested six individuals in a major fraud case.
- The syndicate operated through fake lottery and prize schemes.
- Nigerian nationals were key players in the cheating network.
- Fraudulent funds were laundered through fake bank accounts.
- Ongoing investigations may uncover more suspects.
New Delhi, July 20 (NationPress) In a significant development, the Crime Branch of Delhi Police has dismantled a global cheating syndicate operating in the Delhi-NCR region, resulting in the arrest of six individuals, including two Nigerian nationals implicated in defrauding unsuspecting citizens through fraudulent lottery schemes, gift offers, and prize promotions.
Following a tip-off, a team led by ACP Sunil Shrivastava and Inspector Lichhman apprehended Shahid Raza in Punjabi Bagh with Rs 3.63 lakh in cash, nine ATM cards, and a mobile device containing incriminating evidence. His questioning led to the capture of Nigerian national Shedrack Onainor, alias Happy, in Khanpur, who was caught in the act of collecting the proceeds from the scam.
Onainor was found to be living in India illegally after his visa expired in 2018.
Subsequent investigations resulted in the arrest of four additional suspects - Sunday John, also known as Liberty, Vikas, Shahrukh Khan, and Rakesh, alias Lalu. These individuals played vital roles in executing and facilitating the fraudulent activities. The syndicate's modus operandi involved enticing victims with false claims of lottery wins or valuable deliveries. Indian collaborators set up fake bank accounts using manipulated Aadhaar numbers and SIM cards.
The illicitly obtained funds were either withdrawn in cash or transferred digitally through UPI applications such as PhonePe. Shahid Raza and his son-in-law Shahrukh Khan managed ATM withdrawals and digital transactions, while Vikas and Rakesh established 18–20 fake bank accounts for laundering the money.
Nigerian operatives coordinated the scam and collected cash through their Indian partners.
All involved received commissions from the defrauded amounts, which were shared among them. The police confiscated mobile devices, Aadhaar and PAN cards, cheque books, and bank passbooks.
The accused have been charged under applicable sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Foreigners Act, and they have been remanded to judicial custody.
“Ongoing investigations may lead to further arrests and recoveries,” stated DCP Vikram Singh.
Point of View
Showcasing the need for vigilance among citizens. As the Crime Branch continues its investigations, it reaffirms the nation's commitment to combating such crimes, ensuring that justice prevails.
NationPress
20/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the arrest of the cheating syndicate?
The arrests followed a tip-off received by the Crime Branch of Delhi Police, leading to a series of investigations.
What methods did the syndicate use to deceive victims?
The syndicate lured victims through fake lottery wins, prize offers, and gift schemes, using fraudulent bank accounts.
How many people were arrested in this operation?
A total of six individuals were arrested, including two Nigerian nationals.
What charges have been filed against the accused?
The accused have been booked under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Foreigners Act.
Will there be further investigations?
Yes, ongoing investigations may lead to more arrests and recoveries.
