Alina
Bengaluru Man Arrested for Fraud
Bengaluru Man Arrested for Rs 7.19 Cr Fraud
Introduction
The Telangana Cyber Security Bureau (TGCSB) recently arrested a Bengaluru man involved in a massive fraud that duped a businessman from Nalgonda district out of Rs 7.19 crore. The accused, Sunil Kumar Maasthi Rathnappa, and his associates Giri and Rathod, allegedly deceived the victim by promising the release of a seized international remittance. The scam, which involved the transfer of large sums under the pretense of customs and tax fees, has raised concerns over financial security in online transactions.
How the Fraud Unfolded
The arrested man, Sunil Kumar Maasthi Rathnappa (35), a Bengaluru resident, collaborated with his associates Giri and Rathod to target the victim, Kondamallepalley, a businessman from Nalgonda district. According to police reports, Sunil and his associates convinced the victim that a large sum of money, transferred as part of an international remittance, had been seized by customs at the Rajiv Gandhi International (RGI) Airport in Hyderabad.
The trio convinced Kondamallepalley that the seized amount could be released if certain fees, such as advance taxes and transaction charges, were paid upfront. They promised the businessman a hefty 30 percent commission for his assistance, further strengthening their case.
The Victim Transfers Millions
Believing the fraudsters, Kondamallepalley agreed to help them by transferring significant sums of money. In total, the victim transferred Rs 7.18 crore to over 80 different bank accounts provided by Sunil and his associates. This included Rs 38.50 lakh, which was transferred directly into Sunil’s account.
The victim continued to make payments in hopes of receiving the promised commission and having the seized funds released. However, as time passed and the promised returns never materialized, he began to suspect that something was amiss.
Forged Documents to Lure the Victim
In a further effort to maintain credibility, the trio used forged documents to support their claims. One such document included a letter allegedly issued by the Ministry of Textiles, appointing Rathod as the chairman of the National Jute Board for a period of three years. This fake letter was shown to the victim to convince him of their legitimacy and the importance of his financial support.
Despite these elaborate efforts, the victim eventually became suspicious due to the continued lack of any financial returns. Realizing he had been duped, Kondamallepalley approached the authorities for help.
TGCSB Investigation and Arrest
Following the victim’s complaint, the Telangana Cyber Security Bureau launched an investigation into the matter. After gathering evidence, the TGCSB apprehended Sunil Kumar Maasthi Rathnappa on Wednesday, October 9. However, his associates, Giri and Rathod, remain absconding.
The Director of the TGCSB, Shikha Goel, confirmed the details of the case and provided insights into how the scam was carried out. “The victim transferred Rs 7.18 crore to multiple accounts provided by the accused. Based on the victim’s complaint, we arrested Sunil, and efforts are underway to locate the other two culprits,” she said.
Conclusion
This case highlights the need for individuals to be cautious when dealing with large financial transactions, especially involving promises of international remittances or high commissions. The Telangana Cyber Security Bureau continues to work towards apprehending the remaining culprits, and the victim’s pursuit of justice serves as a reminder of the dangers of online scams.
