India: Cambodian link uncovered in Indore doctor’s ₹30.8 million online fraud case

Bhopal: Madhya Pradesh Police have traced an intricate online fraud network to Cambodia in a case where an Indore-based doctor was duped of ₹3.08 crore (Rs30.8 million).

Investigators discovered that the woman who communicated with the doctor had an IP address linked to Cambodia, suggesting an international scam operation. Authorities suspect multiple culprits are involved and are actively pursuing technical leads to unravel the network.

A sophisticated scam
Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police (Crime Branch), Indore, Rajesh Dandotiya, described the breakthrough as significant. "The technical evidence, including the traced IP address, points to a Cambodian connection," he told IANS.

The woman, who introduced herself as Aru Bhatt, used a fake profile to befriend the doctor on social media in January. She lured him into an online trading platform, guiding him through the registration process. Initially, the investments seemed legitimate — his trading wallet displayed returns, and he even withdrew money twice, boosting his confidence in the system.

However, when he attempted a larger withdrawal, the funds were unavailable. Realizing he had been scammed, the doctor reported the fraud to the Crime Branch.

Money routed through 66 transactions
During the investigation, authorities found that the ₹3.08 crore was funneled through 66 transactions into multiple bank accounts. Given the scale of the operation, police believe the fraud ring involves several individuals, likely operating from different locations.

Indore, often referred to as the financial capital of Madhya Pradesh, has seen a sharp rise in online fraud cases. Despite repeated police warnings and awareness campaigns, cybercriminals continue to exploit unsuspecting victims, siphoning off large sums of money.

The investigation is ongoing, with police working to identify and apprehend those responsible.