लेखक: Mahesh Rathod

Contrary to popular belief, Lorem Ipsum is not simply random text. It has roots in a piece of classical Latin literature from 45 BC, making it over 2000 years old. Richard McClintock, a Latin professor

Mumbai: ED Arrests Malad Businessman Ushik Gala in ₹998 Crore ‘Need to Feed’ Money Laundering Case

Mumbai: ED Arrests Malad Businessman Ushik Gala in ₹998 Crore ‘Need to Feed’ Money Laundering Case

Mumbai: ED Arrests Malad Businessman Ushik Gala in ₹998 Crore ‘Need to Feed’ Money Laundering Case Undercover Editor News | Mumbai In a major crackdown on financial fraud linked to a Haryana government welfare programme, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Tuesday arrested Malad-based businessman Ushik Gala, associated with Suumaya Industries, for allegedly laundering ₹998 crore under the ‘Need to Feed’ scheme. Investigators say the massive fund diversion was masked through fake agricultural transactions, shell companies and circular layering of money. Gala, who is also facing allegations in a ₹117 crore investor cheating case, has been remanded to ED custody till November 24 by the court. Complaint Triggered ED Action According to ED prosecutor Arvind Aghav, Gala’s arrest stems from a money-laundering case based on a cheating FIR filed at Worli Police Station by investor Vinay Kumar Agrawal. Agrawal alleged that Suumaya Industries lured him into investing by showcasing a fictitious PPE and CSR contract worth ₹7,000 crore, supposedly sanctioned under Haryana’s ‘Need to Feed’ programme through Dentsu Communications India Pvt Ltd. Based on these “assurances” and what investigators describe as a “fabricated financial picture,” Agrawal invested heavily and later suffered losses amounting to ₹117 crore. How the Alleged Laundering Worked The ED investigation has uncovered a large-scale, complex financial web: 1. Creation of a Special Company Capalpha Trade Pvt Ltd (CTPL) was incorporated in February 2021, allegedly with the sole purpose of financing the ‘Need to Feed’ project. 2. Funds Passed Through Suumaya Group 3. Diversion to Shell Firms 4. Circular Movement of Money Financial Spike Raised Red Flags The ED noted an extraordinary and suspicious rise in Suumaya Industries’ financial statements: In FY 2021–22 alone, the company’s agri-produce segment contributed over 95% of total revenues, touching an enormous ₹12,270 crore — a jump investigators believe was artificially inflated. What’s Next? With Gala now in custody, ED is expected to confront him with evidence regarding: The arrest marks one of the most significant developments yet in the ‘Need to Feed’ money laundering probe, with ED officials indicating more arrests and deeper financial scrutiny are likely.
Mumbai: Special MP & MLA Court Frames Money Laundering Charges Against NCP Leader Nawab Malik

Mumbai: Special MP & MLA Court Frames Money Laundering Charges Against NCP Leader Nawab Malik

Mumbai: Special MP & MLA Court Frames Money Laundering Charges Against NCP Leader Nawab Malik NCP leader Nawab Malik arrives at court as the Special MP & MLA Court frames money laundering charges in the Kurla land case linked to D-Company associates. Court Rejects Discharge Plea; Malik, Family Firms & 1993 Blast Convict Sardar Khan to Face Trial for Alleged Links With D-Company Mumbai | Undercover Editor News: In a significant development, the Special MP & MLA Court in Mumbai on Tuesday formally framed money laundering charges against senior NCP leader Nawab Malik, his family-owned companies Malik Infrastructure and Solidus Investments, and 1993 blast convict Sardar Khan. Malik pleaded not guilty, paving the way for a full-fledged trial in the long-running Enforcement Directorate (ED) case. The order comes days after the court dismissed the discharge pleas filed by Malik and his companies, observing that the investigative material prima facie showed Malik’s alleged conspiracy with D-Company members Haseena Parkar, Salim Patel, and Sardar Khan to illegally acquire a prime parcel of Kurla land and launder the proceeds generated from it. Court’s Observation: “Clear Evidence of Laundering Usurped Property” While rejecting the discharge plea, the court noted:      “It is evident that Nawab Malik, in connivance with D-Company members — Haseena Parkar, Salim Patel, and accused Sardar Khan — participated in laundering illegally usurped property, which constitutes proceeds of crime.” The court further stated that the rent collected through Solidus Investments and Malik Infrastructure—both controlled by the Malik family—must also be treated as proceeds of crime. The Kurla Land Case: How the Deal Was Structured         According to the prosecution: The agency has also accused Malik Infrastructure of collecting ₹9.60 crore in rent through lease arrangements structured after 2010-11. What ED Says Happened With the Rent What Happens Next With charges framed, the court is set to commence trial proceedings. Malik, who has maintained that the case is politically motivated, will now face detailed scrutiny in court along with the co-accused. This case is among the most high-profile money laundering matters involving a senior Maharashtra politician and D-Company-linked land transactions.
Mumbai CNG Crisis: Autos, Taxis & BEST Buses Hit as Pipeline Damage Halts Supply Across City

Mumbai CNG Crisis: Autos, Taxis & BEST Buses Hit as Pipeline Damage Halts Supply Across City

Mumbai CNG Crisis: Autos, Taxis & BEST Buses Hit as Pipeline Damage Halts Supply Across City Commuters wait outside CNG pumps in Mumbai as services stall following a major pipeline disruption at the RCF compound. Undercover Editor News | Report by Mahesh Rathod Mumbai’s daily commute plunged into chaos after a sudden halt in CNG supply left autos, taxis and even BEST buses struggling to operate. The disruption, which began on November 16, was triggered by damage to a GAIL pipeline inside the RCF compound, cutting off gas supply to Mahanagar Gas Limited’s (MGL) City Gate Station in Wadala — the key hub that feeds CNG across Mumbai, Thane and Navi Mumbai. Citywide Transport Impact With CNG pumps shutting down or operating with limited pressure, thousands of commuters were left stranded. Autos and taxis queued for hours outside pumps, while BEST announced that several of its CNG buses may remain off-road until supply stabilises. Transport unions warned that if the situation continues, Mumbai could see a major public transport slowdown, especially during peak hours. Why the Crisis Happened According to initial information, a GAIL pipeline was accidentally damaged during internal work inside the Rashtriya Chemicals and Fertilizers (RCF) compound. This disrupted supply to the Wadala station — one of the most critical distribution points for MGL. Repair work has begun, but officials have not yet provided a firm timeline for full restoration. Violence in Malegaon After Child Murder In a separate disturbing incident, Nashik Rural Police arrested a 24-year-old man for the kidnapping, rape and brutal murder of a 3.5-year-old girl near Malegaon. The accused allegedly crushed the child’s head with a stone. As the news spread, shocked residents took to the streets, blocking the Malegaon–Kusumba Road and demanding strict punishment. Case Against Amit Thackeray & 70 Others Meanwhile, Navi Mumbai Police registered a case against Amit Thackeray, son of MNS chief Raj Thackeray, and around 70 supporters. They allegedly forced open the covering of a Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj statue during an event, leading to crowd unrest and police intervention. Mumbai Faces a Tough Commuting Day With the CNG supply still unstable, commuters are advised to plan travel in advance, expect delays, and rely on available bus and train services until normal supply resumes.
Sheikh Hasina Sentenced to Death for ‘Crimes Against Humanity’; Calls Verdict ‘Rigged’

Sheikh Hasina Sentenced to Death for ‘Crimes Against Humanity’; Calls Verdict ‘Rigged’

Sheikh Hasina Sentenced to Death for ‘Crimes Against Humanity’; Calls Verdict ‘Rigged’ Security forces stand guard outside the tribunal in Dhaka as the International Crimes Tribunal reads the verdict against Sheikh Hasina and her aides. International Crimes Tribunal finds former Bangladesh PM guilty in 2024 student protest crackdown; Dhaka on high alert Undercover Editor News | Editoor- Mahesh RathodDhaka/New Delhi, November 17, 2025 In a historic and deeply polarising judgment, Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal-1 (ICT) on Monday sentenced ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to death after finding her guilty of crimes against humanity, including mass killings, torture, and targeted attacks on student protesters during the 2024 nationwide agitation that toppled her government. The tribunal also pronounced death sentences for former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal and former Inspector General of Police Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun. All three leaders were tried in absentia, with Hasina currently in exile in New Delhi since August 2024. Authorities in Dhaka tightened security across the capital ahead of the verdict, deploying paramilitary forces, riot police, and border guards as tensions soared amid fears of mass unrest. The interim government led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus issued a high-alert directive early Monday, anticipating protests from Awami League loyalists. Five Major Charges Against Sheikh Hasina According to the tribunal, Hasina and her top aides were convicted on five key counts, including: The tribunal concluded that the crackdown was “systematic, planned, and executed under direct orders from the highest political leadership.” Hasina strongly denies all charges, calling them “politically motivated” and claiming the verdict has been “rigged by an illegal government.” Political Reactions & Rising Tensions The verdict has sharply divided Bangladesh’s political and social landscape. Hasina’s son, Sajeeb Wazed, speaking from exile, warned that Awami League workers would block the 2026 national election if the ban on the party is not lifted. He further claimed the ruling was “the darkest day in Bangladesh’s judicial history.” Awami League supporters have already called for nationwide strikes and hartals. The party also alleges that “Hindus are in danger” under the interim administration—claims the government denies. Meanwhile, Dhaka streets remain heavily fortified. Eyewitnesses described checkpoints, road blockades, and drone surveillance around the tribunal complex. Trial in Absentia & International Implications The sentencing of a former Bangladeshi prime minister in absentia is unprecedented. Legal experts say the verdict will likely draw global attention and may trigger diplomatic tensions, especially with India, where Hasina has been residing. Human rights bodies have urged the government to maintain restraint, fearing a repeat of violence that marred the 2024 student uprising. What Happens Next? The interim government has appealed for calm, asserting that “justice has followed due process.” However, with political tempers flaring and Awami League cadres mobilising, Bangladesh appears headed for a period of uncertainty. The verdict marks a dramatic turning point for the country, setting the stage for a prolonged political showdown—one that may shape the nation’s future well beyond 2026.
Thane Balcony Collapse: 30 Residents Rescued Safely; Structure Declared Unsafe

Thane Balcony Collapse: 30 Residents Rescued Safely; Structure Declared Unsafe

Thane Balcony Collapse: 30 Residents Rescued Safely; Structure Declared Unsafe Fire brigade personnel rescue trapped residents after a balcony collapse at Savalaram Smriti Chawl in Thane; the structure was later declared unsafe by civic officials Undercover Editor News | Editor – Mahesh RathodThane, November 16. In a late-night scare for dozens of families, a balcony collapse in a two-storey chawl at Savalaram Smriti Chawl in Diva, Thane, left 30 residents trapped for hours before they were rescued unharmed by fire officials and disaster response teams. The incident occurred at 11:36 pm on Saturday when a section of the balcony suddenly gave way, blocking access to multiple flats. Panic spread through the neighbourhood as residents found themselves unable to exit the building. Swift Response, Zero Injuries Thane Municipal Corporation’s Disaster Management Cell chief, Yasin Tadvi, confirmed that there were no injuries. “All 30 residents trapped due to the gallery collapse were safely evacuated. Our fire brigade team responded immediately and carried out the rescue without any harm,”— Fire Department Official Authorities said the chawl housed 50 to 55 residents across 21 flats. After receiving alerts, the police and fire brigade teams reached the spot within minutes and began coordinated rescue operations. Chawl Declared Unsafe Following a structural inspection, the civic officials declared the building unsafe for habitation. “Since the structure is in a dangerous condition, all flats have been evacuated,”— Civic Official (TMC) Families have now been asked to relocate to safer accommodation until further assessment is completed. Byculla Tragedy: Two Labourers Dead, Three Injured in Construction Site Collapse In a separate incident earlier on Saturday afternoon, tragedy struck in Byculla (West) when a portion of soil collapsed during foundation and piling work at Habib Mansion on Hans Road. Five labourers were trapped when the ground caved in. They were rushed to Nair Hospital around 2:40 pm. Dr. Poonam, Assistant Medical Officer, confirmed that Rahul (30) and Raju (28) succumbed to their injuries.The other injured workers — Sajjad Ali (25), Sobat Ali (28) and Lal Mohammad (18) — are currently undergoing treatment and are reported to be in stable condition. Rescue teams reached the spot promptly, and authorities are now probing whether safety lapses or poor site conditions contributed to the collapse. Construction companies have been urged to adhere strictly to safety norms to avoid similar incidents.
Nowgam Police Station Blast Triggered During Forensic Sampling, Says Centre; 9 Dead, Toll May Rise

Nowgam Police Station Blast Triggered During Forensic Sampling, Says Centre; 9 Dead, Toll May Rise

Nowgam Police Station Blast Triggered During Forensic Sampling, Says Centre; 9 Dead, Toll May Rise Forensic teams inspect the charred remains of Nowgam police station after an accidental explosion during sampling of terror-linked explosives killed nine personnel. Srinagar / New Delhi | Undercover Editor News Agency | November 15, 2025. The Union Ministry of Home Affairs on Saturday confirmed that the deadly explosion inside Nowgam police station in Jammu & Kashmir was an accidental blast that occurred during a forensic sampling process. At least nine people were killed, and officials warn the toll could rise as several personnel remain critically injured. According to senior officials, the explosion took place around 11:20 pm on Friday, inside a secure open area of the police station where a large quantity of explosive materials had been stored for investigation. Stored explosives linked to major terror probe The explosives had been recovered during the recent crackdown on a Red Fort blast-linked terror module, which involved the unearthing of huge quantities of chemicals, detonators and explosive precursors. “For the last two days, forensic teams were carrying out sampling. Due to the large volume of recovered material, the process continued into late Friday night,” a senior official said. Prashant Lokhande, Joint Secretary (J&K Division), MHA, confirmed the development, calling it an unfortunate accidental explosion. “Cause under investigation, speculation unnecessary”: Centre Lokhande stated: “The recovered explosive substances were being forwarded for scientific examination. During this standard procedure, an accidental explosion took place. The cause is being investigated, and any speculation is unnecessary. The government stands with the families of the deceased.” Blast felt 30 km away; severe structural damage A senior J&K Police officer described the explosion as “so powerful that its shockwave was felt up to 30 km away.” The blast: Fire and rescue teams rushed to the spot, and forensic experts have been deployed again to examine the cause. Part of Jaish-e-Mohammad module investigation The Nowgam police station was a key hub for the ongoing investigation into a Jaish-e-Mohammad interstate terror module. Recent raids had recovered: The volume and volatility of these chemicals made the forensic process challenging, officials said. Probe continues, families assured support The Centre has ordered a scientific and technical review into the handling of bulk explosive evidence. Senior police officials visited the blast site and met the injured. Authorities have assured: The situation remains tense but under control as teams continue clearing debris and securing the blast site.
Malad student claims he was blackmailed, tortured and coerced into gender reassignment surgery; Malwani Police arrest four accused

Mumbai Teen Alleges Abduction, Sexual Abuse, Forced Surgery & Extortion by Transgender Gang

Mumbai Teen Alleges Abduction, Sexual Abuse, Forced Surgery & Extortion by Transgender Gang Malwani Police have arrested four accused after a 19-year-old student alleged abduction, torture, blackmail and forced gender reassignment surgery. Malad student claims he was blackmailed, tortured and coerced into gender reassignment surgery; Malwani Police arrest four accused Mumbai | Undercover Editor News Agency | November 14, 2025.A 19-year-old BCom student from Malad has alleged a horrifying series of abuses at the hands of a local transgender gang, including abduction, torture, blackmail, extortion and being forcibly subjected to gender reassignment surgery in Surat. Malwani police have registered a case under multiple serious charges and arrested four accused individuals, while the investigation continues. According to police, the teen—who lives in Appapada, Kurar village—first came into contact with the accused about a year and a half ago. He befriended a transgender individual named Kaveri (alias Kartik Vedamani Nikam), through whom he met Neha Khan (alias Neha Ipte), believed to be leading a transgender group operating in the Malwani area. Blackmail & Threats After Assault The FIR states that on August 5, the student was invited to Neha’s house. Upon arrival, he alleged that Neha, Kaveri, Bhaskar Shetty, and Mahi pressured him to undergo gender transition. When he refused, he was allegedly confined in a room, assaulted, and forced into performing obscene acts while being filmed. The teen claimed the videos were then used to extort money. Out of fear, his mother transferred ₹10,000 to the accused. Over the following weeks, the suspects allegedly continued demanding more money and subjected him to humiliation and violence. He reported being beaten, forced to wear a saree, and made to beg in public. Forced Surgery in Surat In a deeply disturbing allegation, the student told police that on October 28, Neha, her husband Sohail Khan, their adopted son Bhaskar, and others transported him to a hospital near Surat’s Ripple Mall. There, he was allegedly coerced into signing documents before undergoing non-consensual gender reassignment surgery. After returning to Mumbai, his ordeal reportedly continued. He claimed Neha poured hot water on his operated area, forced him to do household chores, and demanded ₹4.5 lakh to “free” him. Escape, Re-Abduction & Police Action The teenager managed to escape on November 4, but was allegedly abducted again shortly afterwards. A vigilant local resident intervened, allowing him to get away safely. He then approached Kurar police station, where a zero FIR was registered and later transferred to Malwani police, who have jurisdiction over the alleged crime location. “Based on the victim’s detailed statement, we have registered a case under sections related to criminal conspiracy, kidnapping, sexual assault, extortion, and forced medical mutilation. Four accused have been arrested so far,” a Malwani police officer confirmed. Police said more arrests are likely as the investigation progresses.
Two Senior Employees Booked for Rs 4.86 Crore Corporate Fraud in Mumbai

Mumbai Bribery Case: Court Clerk Arrested Taking ₹15 Lakh Bribe; Judge Named in FIR as ACB Launches Probe

Mumbai Bribery Case: Court Clerk Arrested Taking ₹15 Lakh Bribe; Judge Named in FIR as ACB Launches Probe Anti-Corruption Bureau officials arrest court clerk in Mumbai bribery case; judge under ACB scanner in ₹15 lakh bribe scandal. Mumbai | Undercoer Editor News Agency | November 13, 2025.In a major anti-corruption crackdown, the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) on Tuesday arrested Chandrakant Vasudev (40), a clerk at the Mazgaon City Civil and Sessions Court, for allegedly accepting a ₹15 lakh bribe from a Bandra-based businessman to secure a favourable court order in a property dispute. The ACB has also named Additional Sessions Judge Aejazuddin S. Kazi (55) in the FIR, showing him as “wanted” in the ongoing investigation Rs 25 lakh bribe demand – Rs 15 lakh for judge, Rs 10 lakh for clerk According to ACB officials, the accused clerk initially demanded a total of ₹25 lakh — ₹15 lakh allegedly meant for the judge and ₹10 lakh for himself. After negotiations, the amount was brought down to ₹15 lakh. Vasudev was later caught red-handed while accepting the money and has been remanded to five days’ custody. Judge named after call during ACB trap ACB Assistant Commissioner of Police Manisha Zende confirmed that Judge Kazi’s name was added to the FIR after the clerk, upon receiving the bribe, called the judge to inform him that the money had been collected. “Vasudev was caught while accepting the bribe after assuring the complainant that the order would be passed in his favour. The judge has been named and further investigation is underway,” ACP Zende stated. Case linked to Bandra property dispute The case revolves around a property in Bandra owned by the businessman’s wife’s company, which was allegedly encroached upon by another party. The dispute was earlier being heard in the Bombay High Court, which stayed proceedings in 2016 since the property’s value was below ₹10 crore. In March 2024, the case was transferred to the Mazgaon City Civil and Sessions Court. On September 9, 2025, when the matter came up for hearing, Vasudev allegedly contacted the complainant, asking him to meet at a café in Chembur. During their meeting on September 12, the clerk reportedly demanded ₹25 lakh, stating that a favourable order could be “managed” through the judge. ACB lays trap and arrests clerk Following multiple follow-up calls from the clerk, the businessman approached the ACB Worli office on November 10 and lodged a formal complaint. The bureau verified the claim and laid a trap the next day.On November 11, Vasudev was caught red-handed while accepting the ₹15 lakh bribe. “Immediately after taking the cash, Vasudev contacted the judge to inform him that the amount had been received. Based on this, both were booked under relevant sections of the Prevention of Corruption Act,” an ACB officer said. The ongoing probe is being supervised by Inspector Sunit Dighe under the guidance of Assistant Commissioner of Police Pravin Navadkar.
SC Sets January 21 for Final Hearing on Shiv Sena Symbol Row: Uddhav vs Shinde Battle Nears Climax

SC Sets January 21 for Final Hearing on Shiv Sena Symbol Row: Uddhav vs Shinde Battle Nears Climax

SC Sets January 21 for Final Hearing on Shiv Sena Symbol Row: Uddhav vs Shinde Battle Nears Climax Supreme Court of India to begin final hearing on the Shiv Sena’s ‘Bow and Arrow’ symbol dispute between the Uddhav Thackeray and Eknath Shinde factions on January 21, 2026. The Supreme Court will also hear the NCP faction dispute the following day as both cases involve overlapping issues of party identity and legislative majority. New Delhi | Undercover Editor News agency | November 12, 2025:The Supreme Court on Wednesday fixed January 21, 2026, for the final hearing on petitions filed by the Uddhav Thackeray-led faction of the Shiv Sena challenging the Election Commission’s February 2023 order that allotted the iconic ‘bow and arrow’ symbol to the faction led by Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. A Bench of Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi announced that the court will dedicate three hours each to hear arguments from both factions in the much-awaited political and legal showdown that could redefine the future of Maharashtra’s dominant regional party. The Bench further informed that it will take up a similar dispute involving the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) the very next day, on January 22, given that both matters revolve around the core question of who represents the “real” political party after a split. Uddhav Camp Seeks Urgent Hearing Amid Local Polls Senior advocate Devadatt Kamat, representing the Uddhav Thackeray faction, urged the court to expedite the hearing, citing the upcoming local body elections in Maharashtra. Justice Surya Kant, however, remarked wryly that political parties in India are “always in election mode,” whether for national, state, or local contests — signaling the court’s intention to proceed in a structured manner. On the other hand, senior advocates Mukul Rohatgi and Neeraj Kishan Kaul appeared for the Shinde faction, defending the Election Commission’s decision that recognized their camp as the legitimate Shiv Sena. Long-Pending Case Nears Closure The matter has been lingering since February 17, 2023, when the Election Commission of India (ECI) ruled in favor of the Shinde-led group, granting it the ‘Shiv Sena’ name and symbol after the 2022 rebellion that toppled the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government. In July 2024, the Supreme Court had emphasized that the dispute cannot remain unresolved indefinitely, noting the need for finality before major elections in the state. The Uddhav Thackeray faction argues that the ECI’s reliance on legislative majority—rather than organizational strength and ideological continuity—violates the principles outlined in the Election Symbols (Reservation and Allotment) Order, 1968. The Thackeray camp also contends that Maharashtra Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar’s decision to hand over the party name and symbol to the Shinde group was contrary to the Supreme Court’s own Constitution Bench verdict on defections. Political Stakes High in Maharashtra The ruling by the Speaker earlier this year had fortified Eknath Shinde’s position as Chief Minister, with the BJP and NCP (Ajit Pawar group) forming the coalition government. In the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, the Shinde-led Shiv Sena secured 7 seats, while in the Maharashtra Assembly elections, the BJP won 132, Shinde’s Sena 57, and Ajit Pawar’s NCP 41 By December 2024, Devendra Fadnavis returned as Maharashtra’s Chief Minister, with Shinde and Pawar serving as his deputies — cementing the Mahayuti alliance’s dominance in state politics. The upcoming Supreme Court verdict, therefore, is poised to not only decide the symbol and identity of the Shiv Sena but also reshape Maharashtra’s political balance ahead of the 2025 civic body polls and beyond. Summary
Mumbai Police Bust Fake International Call Centre Cheating US & Canadian Citizens; Five Arrested

Mumbai Police Bust Fake International Call Centre Cheating US & Canadian Citizens; Five Arrested

Mumbai Police Bust Fake International Call Centre Cheating US & Canadian Citizens; Five Arrested Mumbai Police bust a fake international call centre in Mulund Colony that duped US and Canadian citizens through loan scams; five arrested including mastermind Sagar Gupta. Mumbai | Undercover Editor News agency | November 12, 2025In a major breakthrough against cyber fraud, the Mumbai Police have busted a fake international call centre operating out of Mulund Colony, which was allegedly cheating citizens in the United States and Canada through fraudulent loan offers. The police have arrested five individuals, including the alleged mastermind, Sagar Gupta, and seized laptops, mobile phones, routers, and cash during the raid. According to police officials, the racket was being run under the guise of a customer service operation. The accused posed as loan officers representing reputed U.S.-based financial institutions and targeted foreign nationals through phishing calls and messages. Victims were promised quick loan approvals, but were instead duped into transferring money through gift cards and cryptocurrency wallets. “The accused were running a fake setup to cheat US and Canadian citizens by offering them quick loans. They then siphoned off the proceeds through digital channels,” said a senior police official involved in the investigation. The arrested individuals have been identified as Sagar Rajesh Gupta (27), Abhishek Suryaprakash Singh (28), Tanmay Kumar Rajneesh Dhadsing (27), Shailesh Manohar Shetty (27), and Rohan Ansari (28).A search is underway for another suspect, Prashant Rajput from Surat, Gujarat, who allegedly helped the group convert U.S. dollar gift cards into Indian rupees. During the operation, the police seized two laptops, 11 mobile phones, two Wi-Fi routers, and ₹76,000 in cash. The accused have been booked under relevant sections of the Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Information Technology Act. Cyber Fraud on the Rise The case has once again highlighted the growing menace of cybercrime networks operating from Indian cities and targeting unsuspecting victims abroad. Police have urged citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious calls or digital loan offers to the National Cyber Helpline (1930). In a related case, a 60-year-old Mumbai businessman was recently duped of ₹53 lakh in an online “digital arrest” scam, where fraudsters posed as officials from the CBI, Delhi Police, and TRAI. The victim was threatened with arrest in a fake money laundering case and coerced into transferring funds under the guise of “security verification.” Authorities are now tightening digital surveillance and international cooperation to curb such transnational scams.

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