As many as 32 FIRs have been registered against celebrity hairstylist Jawed Habib, his son Anos Habib, and an associate for allegedly defrauding investors through a cryptocurrency-based investment scheme promising unusually high returns. Police said that the trio collected several lakhs from investors across the district under the guise of trading in Bitcoin.
Investors lured with high-return promises
According to the police, Habib and his associates ran the alleged scheme under the banner of Follicle Global Company (FLC). They reportedly collected between ₹5 lakh and ₹7 lakh from each investor, promising 50–70% returns on Bitcoin purchases. However, even after more than two-and-a-half years, none of the investors received their promised returns or refunds.
“They took around ₹5–7 lakh from each investor, claiming it would yield high profits. But even after over two years, no one got their money back,” said Superintendent of Police Krishna Kumar Vishnoi. Preliminary investigations have revealed a financial fraud estimated at ₹5–7 crore, he added.
Police issue lookout notice
Police have issued a lookout notice to prevent Habib and his family members from leaving the country. The matter came to light after multiple investors filed complaints, prompting detailed inquiries into FLC’s operations.
“After a detailed investigation, 32 FIRs have been registered against Jawed Habib, his son Anos, and an associate named Saiful. They were issued notices to appear for questioning,” said Raia Satti police station in-charge Govind Kumar.
He added that while Habib’s lawyer had met officers on Sunday, the police have insisted that Habib himself record his statement in person.
Habib’s lawyer cites poor health
On Sunday, Habib’s lawyer Pawan Kumar met Sambhal Police and submitted medical documents citing his client’s ill health. “My client has heart issues and had recently lost his father. He is currently unwell and could not appear in person. We are cooperating fully with the police,” Kumar told reporters.
He further said that Habib has full faith in the judiciary and the Constitution, and that the hairstylist’s legal team was willing to cooperate at every stage of the investigation.
“We believe that the police will not act unjustly. The allegations are under investigation, and we are ready to cooperate throughout the process,” Kumar added.
Ongoing investigation
Police officials confirmed that the investigation is ongoing and involves multiple complainants from across Sambhal district. Investigators are now examining FLC’s financial records, investor receipts, and digital communication related to the alleged investment scheme.
Officials said that more victims could come forward as awareness of the alleged fraud spreads. The police are also coordinating with financial authorities to track money transfers and assess whether the operation extended beyond Uttar Pradesh.
As of now, Habib and his son remain under investigation, and authorities have not ruled out the possibility of additional sections being added to the case if more evidence emerges.