BTech Student's Scholarship Funds Stolen in Gunpoint Crypto Scam Robbery
In a distressing incident in New Delhi, a BTech student's attempt to invest his scholarship money in cryptocurrency ended in a terrifying gunpoint robbery. The student, who had recently received Rs 2 lakh in scholarship assistance, fell victim to a sophisticated scam orchestrated through fake social media advertisements.
The Lure of Discounted Cryptocurrency
According to Deputy Commissioner of Police (Outer) Sachin Sharma, the student was browsing online when he encountered a social media advertisement offering USDT, a popular cryptocurrency, at highly attractive discounted rates. Intrigued by the opportunity, the student contacted the advertisers and engaged in detailed phone conversations, eventually arranging a meeting to complete the transaction.
On February 22, the student, accompanied by two friends, arrived at the designated location near Paschim Vihar East metro station with Rs 1.8 lakh in cash. What was supposed to be a straightforward investment deal quickly turned into a nightmare.
The Violent Robbery Unfolds
Police reports detail that shortly after the trio reached the spot, one of the accused forcefully entered the student's car and brandished a sophisticated pistol. Simultaneously, five to six accomplices surrounded the vehicle from the outside, effectively trapping the student and his friends inside.
The assailants then allegedly seized the entire Rs 1.8 lakh in cash before fleeing the scene. The victims immediately made a PCR call, leading to the registration of a case at the Paschim Vihar East police station.
Police Investigation and Arrests
Delhi police have since arrested seven individuals in connection with the crime, including alleged mastermind Amit Jain. The other arrested suspects are Amit, Preetpal, Abhay, and three brothers identified as Nishant, Shivam, and Harsh.
Investigations revealed that Jain, who had suffered significant financial losses in his rice export business in Dubai, created fake Instagram and Facebook pages specifically designed to lure people interested in purchasing USDT at discounted rates. The arrested accomplices were allegedly paid Rs 10,000 each for their participation in the criminal operation.
Recovery of Stolen Funds and Evidence
Police have successfully recovered Rs 1.5 lakh of the stolen amount. Additionally, authorities have seized crucial evidence including:
- The sophisticated pistol used in the robbery
- Three live cartridges
- A car, motorcycle, and scooty allegedly used by the gang
- A laptop and 11 mobile phones connected to the crime
Authorities suspect this gang may be involved in similar cryptocurrency scam cases across Delhi, highlighting the growing risk of digital currency-related crimes in the capital city.
