Udupi: A private hospital electrician in Manipal fell victim to an online fraud, losing ₹2.8 lakh after being lured with a fake international gift scheme.
Instagram Connection Leads to Fraud
In December 2024, the victim received a message on Instagram from an unknown account, ‘reta_wat’, and began interacting with the sender. Trusting the person, he shared his postal address.
Fake Customs and Currency Conversion Charges
Soon after, a caller named Mafu Amoong claimed a parcel in his name required customs clearance. The victim was asked to transfer ₹1.3 lakh to Ilota P. Jakha. He sent ₹90,000 and ₹40,000 via Google Pay and PhonePe between January 22 and 27.
Later, he was contacted by individuals posing as representatives of Sonia Delhi Parcel Office and Sonia Rapid Courier, Mumbai. They demanded ₹1.5 lakh for currency conversion from Pounds to Indian Rupees. Believing the claim, the victim sent ₹90,000 via cheque and ₹60,000 through PhonePe to Rohit Kumar.
Scam Uncovered, Case Filed
When asked for another ₹60,000, the victim became suspicious and lodged a police complaint. The case is registered under Section 66(D) of the IT Act and Section 318(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
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