Noida Police Cracks Down on Widespread Cruise Ship Job Scam
In a significant crackdown, the Noida Police have arrested four individuals for allegedly orchestrating a sophisticated job scam that targeted aspirants across India with false promises of lucrative positions on cruise ships and foreign postings. The operation, which involved a fake call center in Sector 132, Noida, has been linked to financial losses estimated at nearly Rs 1 crore, affecting victims from multiple states.
Details of the Arrests and Accused
The accused have been identified as Rahul, aged 25, from Jalaun; Prashant, aged 25, from Aligarh; Vishal Sharma, aged 20, from Noida; and Saif Warish, aged 25, from Kanpur. According to police reports, they operated under the guise of a firm named "SEA HIRE MARINE SERVICE COMPANY", using this cover to contact job seekers through phone calls and online platforms. The scam involved offering attractive pay packages and overseas opportunities on crew ships, luring candidates into paying hefty processing fees.
Modus Operandi and Financial Impact
Police revealed that the accused would inform candidates they had cleared preliminary rounds and then demand payments ranging from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 1.2 lakh per person for registration, documentation, and processing. The scam had a broad geographical reach, with complaints emerging from states such as Kerala, West Bengal, and Uttar Pradesh, indicating a nationwide network of victims.
Evidence Seized and Investigation Progress
During a joint raid by the Cyber Crime Police Station and Sector 126 police, authorities seized electronic devices, forged documents, and bank records from the rented call center premises. Key items recovered include three laptops, seven mobile phones, 26 calling data sheets, 21 registers with candidate contact details, four seals, four fake joining letters, bank passbooks, and ATM cards. These materials were used to lend authenticity to the fraudulent operation.
Legal Actions and Police Advisory
An FIR has been registered at the Cyber Crime Police Station in Gautam Buddha Nagar under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and sections 66 and 66D of the Information Technology Act. Police are continuing their investigation to trace the money trail and identify additional victims. In a press statement, the Noida Police urged job seekers to exercise caution, emphasizing that no legitimate employer requires large upfront payments for jobs. They advised candidates to independently verify companies and report suspicious activities through the cyber crime helpline.
Broader Implications for Job Seekers
This case highlights the growing threat of online job scams, particularly in sectors promising overseas placements. Authorities stress the importance of vigilance and due diligence when applying for jobs online, as such fraudulent schemes can lead to significant financial and emotional distress for unsuspecting individuals.
