In a significant crackdown on digital financial fraud, the Gurgaon cyber crime police have apprehended two Nigerian nationals for their alleged involvement in a sophisticated WhatsApp-based scam. The accused, identified as Ojo Uyiosa and James, were arrested on Saturday from the S-Block area of Nathupur in Gurgaon, following meticulous analysis of a suspicious phone number linked to the criminal activities.
Modus Operandi of the Cyber Fraud
According to police officials, the duo, along with other Nigerian associates, allegedly posed as directors of various companies on the popular messaging platform WhatsApp. Using this deceptive identity, they contacted employees of these firms, convincing them to urgently transfer substantial sums of money to specified bank accounts under false pretenses.
The fraudulent scheme reportedly resulted in approximately ₹10 lakh being illicitly transferred into a Bandhan Bank account. Authorities have confirmed that two separate cyber crime complaints were already registered against this very account prior to the arrests, highlighting a pattern of repeated offenses.
Investigation and Evidence Uncovered
During interrogation and evidence collection, it emerged that the accused were involved in multiple cyber fraud incidents employing the same modus operandi. Police recovered two mobile phones and three SIM cards that were instrumental in executing the scams. The primary communication channel for the fraudsters was WhatsApp, while their associates facilitated the arrangement of bank accounts to receive the defrauded funds.
Background of the Accused
Investigations revealed that Ojo Uyiosa first entered India in 2014 on a student visa, whereas James arrived in 2023 on a tourist visa. Their involvement in this elaborate cyber fraud network underscores the transnational nature of such criminal activities.
Legal Proceedings and Ongoing Efforts
Following their arrest, a formal case was registered against the accused. They were produced before a court on Sunday, which remanded them to three days of police custody for further interrogation. Law enforcement officials emphasized that efforts are actively underway to trace additional recoveries, identify other members of the criminal gang, and fully uncover the extent of the fraud.
This case highlights the growing threat of cyber crimes facilitated through popular messaging apps and the importance of vigilance among corporate employees. The Gurgaon cyber crime police's swift action serves as a reminder of the ongoing battle against digital financial fraud in the region.
