Mohali: In a major crackdown on cyber fraud, the cybercrime police have busted a pan-India online gaming scam involving fraudulent investment schemes. The police arrested eight accused and unearthed a racket that duped victims of approximately Rs 18 crore under the pretext of high-return online gaming platforms.The arrested accused have been identified as Pankaj Goswami – Hanumangarh, Rajasthan, and Bhaven Kumar Ulke – Nagpur, Maharashtra whereas the names of other accused have been withheld by the police.SSP Harmandeep Singh Hans, addressing the media, revealed that the accused operated through the website www.allpanelexch.com, which they falsely promoted as a lucrative online gaming and betting platform. Victims were lured through WhatsApp messages showcasing fake earnings and were encouraged to register user IDs and invest money through multiple bank accounts linked to the accused.Acting on specific intelligence inputs, a team led by DSP Rupinder Deep Kaur Sohi carried out simultaneous raids at several locations in Kharar, including Koiyaan City Homes, Gillco Valley, and Royal Apartments. The raids led to the arrest of eight individuals and seizure of key evidence.SSP Hans said the gang had been running operations from two different premises in Kharar, with the alleged mastermind, identified as Vijay, currently on the run. A lookout circular has been issued, and efforts are under way to trace and arrest him.The police have urged the public to remain cautious and avoid falling for online investment or gaming schemes promising unusually high returns. Investigation is ongoing to track the money trail and identify more victims and collaborators in the scam.They have been booked under Section 318(4) of the BNS and Section 66 of the IT Act.BOXItems Seized:5 laptops51 mobile phones70 SIM cards127 ATM cardsRs 2.5 lakh in cash
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