Uttar Pradesh Man Arrested for ₹71.74 Lakh Online Investment Scam in Odisha
Synopsis
A man from Uttar Pradesh has been arrested by Bhubaneswar police for his alleged involvement in a massive online investment fraud exceeding ₹71.74 lakh. The case highlights the growing concern over cybercrime and the need for vigilance in financial investments.
Key Takeaways
Accused arrested: Harshit Kant Pandey, 26, from Kanpur.
Fraud amount: ₹71.74 lakh in online investment scam.
Victim: Deepika Sahoo, contacted fraudsters via social media.
Police action: Swift arrest following investigation into money trail.
Cybercrime awareness: Importance of vigilance in online investments highlighted.
Bhubaneswar, April 15 (NationPress) The Commissionerate Police have apprehended a man from Uttar Pradesh for his suspected role in an online investment scam totaling Rs 71.74 lakh, as confirmed by a senior official on Wednesday.
The suspect, Harshit Kant Pandey (26), hails from Kanpur district, Uttar Pradesh. His arrest is linked to case number 309/24, initiated following a complaint from Sujata Sahoo representing her sister, Deepika Sahoo, who resides in the Nandankanan area of Bhubaneswar.
Deepika, currently living abroad, became acquainted with the alleged fraudsters in 2024 while in Bhubaneswar, prompted by a social media advertisement.
A senior police official revealed that the accused deceived the victim into investing her hard-earned savings with enticing promises of substantial returns, thus committing acts of cheating and misappropriation.
The fraudsters consistently directed the complainant to invest significant amounts in Initial Public Offerings (IPOs), assuring her of lucrative returns.
Deepika reported that she had invested a total of Rs 71,74,664 into multiple accounts as instructed by the cybercriminals.
After tracing the financial transactions, analyzing call detail records, and gathering other evidence, a team from the Cyber Crime and Economic Offence Police Station arrested Pandey at his hideout in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, on Monday.
He was subsequently presented before a local court in Kanpur and brought to Odisha under transit remand.
On Wednesday, the accused appeared in a court in Bhubaneswar, which ordered his remand into judicial custody.
Upon investigation, the Commissionerate Police discovered that Pandey had previously been detained by Haryana Police for another cybercrime incident.
The police further verified that a total of 65 complaints have been lodged against Pandey on the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal (NCRP) concerning his alleged involvement in multiple cybercrime cases that are currently under investigation.
Point of View
But it also highlights the need for public awareness regarding online scams.
NationPress
9 Aug 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the amount involved in the fraud?
The fraud involved a total of ₹71.74 lakh.
Who filed the complaint?
The complaint was filed by Sujata Sahoo on behalf of her sister, Deepika Sahoo.
Where was the accused arrested?
The accused was arrested in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh.
How many complaints have been registered against Pandey?
A total of 65 complaints have been registered against him on the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal.
What kind of fraud was committed?
The fraud involved luring victims into investing in Initial Public Offerings with false promises of high returns.
