Lucknow Woman Targeted in Elaborate Instagram Job Scam, Loses Cash and Gold Jewellery
A disturbing case of cyber fraud has emerged from Lucknow's Madiyaon area, where a young woman was allegedly swindled out of significant cash and valuable gold jewellery by fraudsters who manipulated her through social media. The perpetrators reportedly used a deceptive Instagram account to befriend the victim before luring her with a fraudulent job opportunity.
Deceptive Social Media Tactics and Financial Manipulation
According to police investigations, the accused operated using an Instagram account with the ID 'Lakshay_0606', which authorities discovered was registered under the name of a deceased youth from Hardoi district. The victim, a resident of Aadharkheda in Faizullaganj, was gradually groomed and manipulated over time by the scammers.
The fraudsters convinced her to transfer money into multiple bank accounts under the false pretense of securing employment for her. This financial exploitation was systematic and calculated, designed to extract maximum value from the vulnerable target.
Gold Jewellery Extortion Through Bus Transport
In addition to the cash transfers, the accused allegedly coerced the woman into surrendering her gold jewellery through an unusual delivery method. The stolen items included:
- Three gold chains
- Two gold rings
- Six gold earrings
- One gold top
- Two gold lockets
The jewellery was reportedly sent via buses operating between Kaisarbagh and Hardoi, demonstrating the organized nature of the criminal operation and their willingness to use unconventional methods to collect their ill-gotten gains.
Family Investigation Uncovers the Fraud
The scam came to light only after the victim's father took matters into his own hands. He meticulously traced the bank accounts used in the transactions and contacted individuals associated with those accounts. This personal investigation revealed that the Instagram account and bank operations were controlled by two identified individuals: Sanjeev Pandey, also known as Sandeep Pandey, and Sonu Sardar.
Threats and Intimidation Tactics
When confronted about their criminal activities, the accused allegedly resorted to intimidation. They reportedly pressured the victim's family to settle the matter privately and threatened to circulate obscene photographs of the young woman on social media platforms if they pursued legal action.
This case highlights the growing sophistication of cyber criminals who exploit social media platforms to target vulnerable individuals, using both financial and emotional manipulation to achieve their goals. It serves as a stark warning about the dangers of engaging with strangers online, particularly when job opportunities or financial transactions are involved.
