WhatsApp Business Deal Lure Leads to ₹20.70 Lakh Cyber Fraud, Two Arrested

Sambalpur, Odisha: Police in Sambalpur have arrested two individuals in connection with a ₹20.70 lakh cyber fraud that targeted an agricultural business using WhatsApp, officials said. The accused are Jagdish Kumar (44) from Narela, New Delhi, and Ram Ashre (39) from Malkaganj, Odisha, who allegedly acted as intermediaries for an organized cybercrime network.

Modus Operandi: WhatsApp Business Deception

Investigation revealed that the fraudsters impersonated buyers interested in purchasing agricultural equipment. They contacted the victim, Achyutananda Patel, through WhatsApp, placing a fake bulk order for 50 agricultural reaper machines in 2025. To gain trust, the fraudsters deposited advance payments totaling ₹20,70,005 over 12 transactions between August 5 and August 14, 2025.

The accused then used psychological pressure and impersonation tactics, including claiming connections with influential figures and government agencies, to coerce the victim into withdrawing and transferring ₹13 lakh in cash and an additional ₹7 lakh from personal savings.

Use of Mule Accounts to Obscure the Money Trail

Authorities discovered that mule accounts were used to hide the illicit funds. Money was first deposited into accounts under fake or third-party names, then routed in multiple stages to prevent tracing. Bank records and digital evidence were seized to support the ongoing investigation.

Arrests and Wider Network

The accused were apprehended in New Delhi, and police are probing the larger network behind the scam. Officials urged businesses to verify unknown orders and proposals received through social media or messaging platforms to prevent falling victim to similar schemes.

Police Advisory

• Always confirm the identity of business contacts before transferring money.
• Avoid complying with emergency demands or unsolicited advance payments.
• Report suspicious accounts or transactions to the local cybercrime unit.

Authorities continue to investigate and trace additional members of the organized cybercrime network.