In a significant breakthrough, the Patiala Cyber Crime police have arrested two key operatives of an international cyber fraud syndicate allegedly responsible for a massive online investment scam amounting to Rs 8.1 crore. The case is directly linked to the tragic suicide attempt of retired Inspector General of Police, Amar Singh Chahal.
Arrests Made in High-Profile Cyber Fraud Case
The arrests were executed under FIR No. 55/25, registered at the Patiala Cyber Crime police station based on a complaint filed by the family of the former senior police officer. One of the arrested accused is a resident of Thane, Maharashtra, and is described by investigators as a notorious, history-sheeter type fraudster. Police believe he was integrated into a larger, well-organized network executing financial crimes across state and international borders. The second arrested individual, also from Thane, played an operational role in facilitating the fraudulent scheme.
According to police sources, the Thane-based module was instrumental in arranging SIM cards, bank accounts, and forged documentation used to route and launder funds siphoned from victims. This modus operandi indicates a structured syndicate with clearly defined roles for each member.
Evidence Points to Systematic, Layered Operations
During investigative raids, the cyber police unearthed a trove of evidence pointing to large-scale, systematic operations. The recoveries included over 500 SIM cards, many of them damaged, and a diary containing meticulous records of SIM usage and identifiers. This find strongly suggests layered operations designed to evade law enforcement detection.
In addition, authorities seized stamps, a thumb impression scanner, eight mobile phones, multiple Aadhaar and PAN cards, and several cheque books. These items are typical tools for creating mule bank accounts and false identities on a large scale, facilitating both the fraud and subsequent money laundering.
Dubai Links and Ongoing Investigation
The investigation has now entered a crucial phase. Police teams are focused on tracing the financial trail of bank accounts linked to the seized SIM cards and documents. Efforts are underway to analyze transaction data, freeze suspicious accounts, and identify other potential victims of this elaborate scam.
Preliminary findings point to the syndicate being controlled from abroad, with strong operational links pointing towards Dubai. A third accused, believed to be a crucial handler of the racket, is suspected to be operating from the UAE city. Police are using formal channels to track this suspect's movements and role, and more arrests are anticipated as technical and banking evidence is examined.
The case came to light after retired IG Amar Singh Chahal allegedly shot himself in the chest with a licensed revolver at his Patiala residence in the 26-Acre locality on December 22. He was rushed to a private hospital where he underwent surgery and continues to receive treatment. Chahal had reportedly left behind a detailed 12-page note stating he was cheated of over Rs 8 crore in an online investment scheme. In the note, he expressed deep remorse and fear for his family's financial future, while absolving others of responsibility for his actions.
As Chahal remains hospitalized, the Patiala cyber cell has intensified its probe to unravel the complete chain of conspirators behind the fraud that allegedly drove the distinguished former officer to attempt suicide.
