Cyber Fraud Surge: Pune Citizens Lose Over ₹2 Crore In Online Scams

Pune News: Elderly Man From Nigdi Defrauded Of ₹2.65 Lakh Over Fake Water Connection Cut-Off Threat
Pune: In a concerning rise of cybercrime, the Pune city police registered three separate cases of online fraud on Wednesday, where citizens were collectively cheated of over ₹2 crore.
Corporate Scam in Yerawada: The Yerawada police booked Akash Umesh Pandey and Smriti Akash Pandey for allegedly defrauding BPA Technologies Private Limited in Vimannagar. Between June 1, 2018, and January 29, 2025, the accused allegedly forged bank statements and misappropriated ₹1.74 crore. They have been charged under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) Sections 318(4), 316(4), 316(2), and 3(5).
Stock Market Fraud in Vishrambaug: A 49-year-old woman from Narayan Peth fell victim to online fraudsters posing as stock market experts. Between May 2 and June 16, 2024, she was duped of ₹32.03 lakh. The case has been registered under IPC Sections 419 and 420, along with Section 66D of the Information Technology (IT) Act.
Balewadi Senior Citizen Targeted: The Chatuhshrungi police registered a case against an unidentified fraudster who deceived a senior resident of Balewadi. The scam took place in December 2024, resulting in a loss of ₹28.88 lakh.
Authorities have urged citizens to remain vigilant against cyber frauds, verify financial transactions, and refrain from sharing personal or banking details online. Investigations into these cases are ongoing, and police have assured stringent action against the perpetrators.