Did Odisha Police Capture Scammers Targeting Pilgrims with Fake Neeladri Bhakta Nivas Website?
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Synopsis
In a significant crackdown, Odisha Police have apprehended two fraudsters from Uttar Pradesh for scamming devotees through a counterfeit website for Neeladri Bhakta Nivas. This highlights the ongoing battle against cyber fraud targeting vulnerable pilgrims, ensuring that justice is served and public trust is upheld.
Key Takeaways
- Odisha Police apprehended two scammers for creating a fake website.
- The website targeted devotees seeking accommodation.
- Authorities acted quickly after a complaint was filed.
- Fraudsters used advanced technology to deceive victims.
- Police continue to combat cyber fraud effectively.
Bhubaneswar, April 28 (NationPress) Odisha Police have detained two con artists from Uttar Pradesh for deceiving devotees by establishing fraudulent websites for Neeladri Bhakta Nivas, a lodging facility for pilgrims overseen by the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA), as reported by Vinaytosh Mishra, DG of Odisha Crime Branch, on Monday.
The suspects have been identified as Anshuman Sharma (24) from Agra and Aravinda Kumar (35) from the Pratapgarh district of Uttar Pradesh.
The pair was captured following a complaint filed by the Chief Administrator of Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri in March.
Authorities sought police assistance to act against the fraudulent website www.neeladribhaktanivas.in, which the scammers utilized to fool unsuspecting devotees, promising them accommodations at Neeladri Bhakta Nivas in Puri.
The Cyber Crime Unit of the Crime Branch, utilizing advanced technology, discovered that Anshuman Sharma had established the fake website on May 22, 2024.
Following the complaint, law enforcement swiftly dismantled the fraudulent site. Investigators later found that pilgrims had transferred funds to the account of Aravinda Kumar, a close associate of Anshuman.
Both suspects were eventually apprehended at their hideouts in Uttar Pradesh. Authorities also seized a laptop, a mobile phone, a SIM card, documentation of the fraudulent website, an Aadhar card, a PAN card, and GoDaddy hosting details related to Neeladri Bhakta Nivas.
In addition, the Crime Branch has arrested five other fraudsters from various locations in Gujarat and Uttar Pradesh in separate cyber fraud cases, including an investment scam that deceived a Biju Janata Dal MLA and former minister out of Rs 1.4 crore.
Point of View
We stand firmly with the commitment to protect citizens from cyber fraud. The recent arrests by Odisha Police exemplify the proactive measures law enforcement is taking to safeguard devotees from deceitful practices. It's crucial to remain vigilant in the digital age, ensuring that trust and safety are paramount.
NationPress
17/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the reason behind the arrests by Odisha Police?
Odisha Police arrested two individuals for cheating devotees through a fake website created for Neeladri Bhakta Nivas, promising them fake accommodations.
Who are the arrested individuals?
The arrested individuals are Anshuman Sharma (24) from Agra and Aravinda Kumar (35) from Pratapgarh district, Uttar Pradesh.
What actions did the police take after the complaint?
After receiving a complaint from the Chief Administrator of Shree Jagannath Temple, the police took down the fraudulent website and arrested the suspects.
What evidence was seized during the arrest?
The police seized a laptop, mobile phone, SIM card, and various identification documents related to the fraudulent activities.
Have there been other cases of cyber fraud reported?
Yes, the Crime Branch has arrested five other fraudsters in separate cases of cyber fraud across Gujarat and Uttar Pradesh.
