Pune: Cyber fraudsters have duped two individuals in Pune under the pretext of stock market investments, collectively defrauding them of ₹52 lakh. The victims, a 52-year-old man from Vishrantwadi and a woman from Katraj, were deceived into investing their money with promises of high returns, only to lose their funds.
₹38.64 Lakh Fraud in Vishrantwadi
In the first case, a Tingrenagar resident was approached by cybercriminals in December 2023 through a message on his mobile phone, offering lucrative stock market investment opportunities. The fraudsters initially gained his trust by returning small profits on his first investment. Encouraged by this, the victim proceeded to invest larger amounts, ultimately transferring ₹38.64 lakh to the fraudsters.
However, once the significant funds were transferred, the criminals ceased all communication and disconnected their phones. Upon realizing he had been scammed, the victim filed a complaint at the Vishrantwadi Police Station, and an investigation is underway, led by Crime Branch Inspector Mangesh Hande.
₹13.28 Lakh Fraud in Katraj
In a second case, a woman from Katraj received a similar message from fraudsters, convincing her to invest in the stock market with the promise of substantial returns. Trusting the offer, she transferred ₹13.28 lakh into their accounts. However, after receiving the funds, the fraudsters cut off all contact, failing to return any money.
The victim later filed a complaint at the Ambegaon Police Station, and Senior Inspector Sharad Zine is currently investigating the matter.