Goregaon Resident Duped of ₹71.24 Lakh in Fake Money-Laundering Scam

MUMBAI: A 63-year-old Goregaon resident lost ₹71.24 lakh to scammers impersonating Customs and CBI officials in a sophisticated cyber fraud. The scammers threatened the victim with fabricated claims of his involvement in a money-laundering case linked to illegal passports, debit cards, and drugs.

On September 24, the victim, a retired steel industry professional, received a call alleging misuse of his Aadhaar details to book a suspicious parcel flagged at Delhi Airport. The scammers coerced him into sharing sensitive documents and isolating himself for further "investigation."

The victim was sent forged government documents, including a fake arrest warrant, and was manipulated into transferring his life savings of ₹71.24 lakh to a designated account under the pretense of asset verification. Realizing the fraud later, he lodged a complaint with the North Cyber Police Station.

Authorities have registered a case under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and Information Technology Act. Investigations are ongoing to trace the perpetrators and recover the funds. Citizens are advised to verify any claims and remain cautious when sharing personal or financial information.