Accused Nageshwar Singh Baghel picked up from Purwa Kalyanpur village in joint operation; cyber cell investigating social media post and possible foreign link

A man was arrested from Rewa district on Sunday for allegedly posting obscene and derogatory comments on social media against Aditi Yadav, the daughter of former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister and Samajwadi Party national president Akhilesh Yadav.

The Uttar Pradesh Special Task Force (STF), along with the Kanpur Commissionerate Cyber Crime Police and Rewa police, conducted a joint operation to apprehend the accused. Nageshwar Singh Baghel (32), a resident of Purwa Kalyanpur village under Panwar police station limits in Rewa district, was taken into custody from his village.

The case originated from a complaint filed by the National Secretary of the Samajwadi Party Advocates' Wing at the Cyber Crime Police Station in Kanpur Commissionerate. The complaint alleged that a Facebook user had shared an altered image of Akhilesh Yadav's daughter along with vulgar and derogatory remarks.

Following the complaint, police registered Case No. 38/2026 at the Cyber Crime Police Station under multiple sections: Section 79 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which deals with words or acts intended to insult a woman's modesty; Section 336(4) of the BNS, relating to forgery intended to damage a person's reputation; and Section 66E of the Information Technology Act, which addresses privacy violations in cyberspace.

The Cyber Crime Police launched an investigation, examining technical data obtained from the social media platform along with digital evidence and electronic records. The investigation led them to Rewa in Madhya Pradesh.

An STF team from Uttar Pradesh reached Madhya Pradesh and, with the help of local police, traced the accused. Panwar police station in-charge Praveen Upadhyay led the local team that conducted the joint operation and took Baghel into custody. After completing necessary legal formalities, the accused was handed over to the Uttar Pradesh STF and taken to Uttar Pradesh for further questioning.

Police officials said the investigation is ongoing. Authorities are also looking into whether any other individuals or digital platforms are linked to the case. Investigators have found that one of the social media accounts linked to the controversy was allegedly being operated from the United States.

Kanpur Commissioner of Police Raghubir Lal said the police are committed to protecting the dignity, respect and safety of women. "Sharing edited images, false information, offensive comments or any content on social media that damages a woman's reputation is a punishable offence, and strict legal action will be taken against those involved," he said.

Earlier, on June 17, FIRs were registered against multiple individuals accused of making objectionable comments about Akhilesh Yadav's daughter. The controversy had drawn widespread condemnation, with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath publicly defending Aditi Yadav and directing police to register an FIR against those responsible.

Following his arrest, Baghel was produced before a court, which later granted him bail.

Police officials have made it clear that social media platforms are being continuously monitored for objectionable and offensive content, and strict legal action will be taken in such cases. Further investigation is underway.

A WhatsApp account unexpectedly logging out may seem like a temporary technical issue, but cybersecurity experts warn that it can often signal something far more serious. With billions of users worldwide relying on the messaging platform for daily communication, hackers continue to target accounts through verification code scams, unauthorized logins, and identity theft attempts. Users who suddenly lose access to their WhatsApp accounts are being advised to take immediate action to secure their information and recover control before fraudsters can exploit their contacts or private conversations.

According to reports, WhatsApp does not usually sign users out without a reason. Therefore, an unexpected logout should be treated as a potential security concern. In many cases, cybercriminals attempt to gain access by intercepting verification codes or using social engineering tactics to take control of an account.

Signs of Account Compromise

Experts say the most obvious warning sign is being logged out of WhatsApp without initiating the action yourself. Users may also notice unusual activity, such as messages being sent without their knowledge, changes to account settings, or unfamiliar devices appearing in the linked devices section.

If any of these signs appear, immediate action can help prevent further misuse of the account and personal information.

Recovery Process

Users who suspect their WhatsApp account has been compromised should first check whether call forwarding has been enabled on their phone. Fraudsters sometimes use call-forwarding settings to intercept verification calls sent by WhatsApp.

To verify this, users can open their phone dialer, enter #21#, and press the call button. The code displays active call-forwarding settings, allowing users to identify and disable any suspicious configurations.

The next step is to visit WhatsApp's official support portal and submit an account recovery request. While completing the form, users should provide their registered phone number and select the option indicating that their account has been hacked. A detailed explanation of the issue, including unexpected logout and suspected unauthorized access, can help expedite the review process.

After submission, WhatsApp's support team reviews the complaint and guides affected users through the recovery procedure.

Strengthening Account Security

Once access is restored, cybersecurity specialists recommend enabling two-step verification. This feature adds an additional six-digit PIN that must be entered when registering the account on a new device, significantly improving security.

Users should also regularly review the "Linked Devices" section within WhatsApp settings. Any unfamiliar device should be removed immediately to prevent unauthorized access.

Another important precaution is never sharing verification codes with anyone. WhatsApp does not request verification codes through messages, emails, or phone calls. Any such request should be treated as a scam attempt.

Growing Cybersecurity Concerns

As messaging applications become increasingly central to personal and professional communication, cybercrime targeting these platforms continues to rise. Fraudsters often use compromised accounts to impersonate victims, request money from contacts, or distribute malicious links.

Cybersecurity experts emphasize that quick action is critical. The longer hackers retain access to an account, the greater the risk of financial fraud, privacy breaches, and reputational damage. Users who notice unusual activity should report the issue immediately and begin the recovery process without delay.

With digital threats becoming more sophisticated, maintaining strong account security and staying alert to warning signs remain essential steps for protecting personal information online.

The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has ordered a temporary ban on messaging platform Telegram in India under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, 2000, officials confirmed on Tuesday. The restriction will remain in effect until June 22, covering the NEET (UG) 2026 re-examination scheduled for June 21.

The government has also directed Telegram to disable its message editing feature in India until June 30, even after the exam lifts. This means users will not be able to edit previously sent messages during this period.

According to the National Testing Agency (NTA), the action was taken because certain individuals were using Telegram's edit function to create fake evidence of paper leaks in national-level examinations. "Some people would edit old messages and add question papers or PDFs to them. Later, it was claimed that the paper had leaked before the exam," an NTA press release stated.

Multiple channels demanding money for exam papers

The agency said several Telegram channels were operating under names like "Paper Leaked NEET", "Re-NEET 2026", "Private Mafia", and "REE NEET MAFIAA". Officials said these channels were demanding thousands to lakhs of rupees from students and parents in exchange for purported exam papers.

The Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre (I4C), in collaboration with Bihar, Gujarat, and Rajasthan Police, has already taken action against several Telegram channels, groups, and bots. The Ahmedabad Cyber Crime Branch has arrested members of an interstate cyber fraud gang linked to the racket.

Investigations have so far revealed eight Telegram channels, transactions worth approximately ₹1.5 crore, and about 1,000 mobile numbers connected to the fraud, police sources said.

NTA: Ban last resort, inconvenience unavoidable

The NTA acknowledged the ban might inconvenience general users but defended the move as a last resort. "Prior to this, several steps were taken, including the removal of objectionable content. This decision was necessary to maintain the fairness of examinations," the agency said.

The NEET-UG examination, originally conducted on May 3, was cancelled following allegations of question paper leaks in several states. The NTA scrapped the exam on May 12 after investigation found indications of irregularities. The re-examination will now be held on June 21.

Changes made for re-exam

The NTA has increased the exam duration from 180 minutes to 195 minutes for the re-test. Space for rough work has also been expanded in the answer sheet.

NEET serves as the gateway to over 1 lakh medical seats across India, including MBBS, BDS, AYUSH, nursing, and other courses at premier institutions such as AIIMS and JIPMER.

The agency has advised students not to trust unconfirmed information circulating on social media and to rely only on official updates at neet.nta.nic.in. Further details on the ban's enforcement are awaited.

The Bilaspur investment scam allegedly lured a farmer with promises of turning ₹10,000 into ₹1 lakh within 24 hours, leading to 160 transactions and losses exceeding ₹21 lakh.

A farmer from Chhattisgarh's Bilaspur district has allegedly lost more than ₹21 lakh in an online investment fraud after being promised extraordinary returns through a Telegram-based trading group. Police have registered a case under cheating and Information Technology Act provisions and launched an investigation into the Bilaspur investment scam.

The victim, identified as 38-year-old Narayan Singh Raj of Bharari Badpara village, reportedly transferred money over several months after being convinced that his investment would generate massive returns through forex trading. According to police, the fraudsters used a Telegram group and repeated profit projections to gain his trust before siphoning off a total of ₹21.32 lakh.

Link Led to Group

Officials said the sequence began on October 28, 2024, when Narayan received an unknown link on his mobile phone. After clicking on it, he was automatically added to a Telegram group operating under the name "India Promo Trading Company".

Members of the group allegedly introduced themselves as representatives of a forex trading firm and claimed they could double investments within a short period. The most attractive promise, according to the complaint, was that an investment of ₹10,000 could generate returns of up to ₹1 lakh within 24 hours.

Such claims persuaded the farmer to begin depositing money through online transfers.

Fake Profits Built Trust

Investigators said the fraudsters appeared to follow a common online scam pattern. After initial investments, the victim was shown virtual profits in his account.

Narayan alleged that at one stage he was shown gains worth around ₹6.80 lakh. The displayed profits encouraged him to invest larger amounts, believing that his money was growing rapidly.

However, when he attempted to withdraw funds, no payment was released. Repeated requests allegedly went unanswered, leading him to suspect fraud.

160 Transactions Recorded

The complaint reveals that money transfers continued for nearly a year.

Between December 2024 and November 2025, Narayan used accounts in India Post Payments Bank, Punjab National Bank and State Bank of India to transfer funds through UPI and other digital payment methods.

Police officials were reportedly surprised by the volume of transactions submitted as evidence. The victim arrived at the police station carrying a 46-page transaction record detailing around 160 separate payments made to accounts linked to the alleged scam.

Investigators are now examining these financial records to trace the recipients and establish the money trail.

Pressure Tactics Used

Preliminary inquiry suggests the fraudsters maintained constant communication with the victim through a Telegram user identified as "Agent Rajesh Pandey".

According to the complaint, the accused repeatedly pressured him to make fresh deposits by claiming that larger investments would unlock higher profits.

One transaction pattern cited by investigators showed how money was collected in quick succession. On January 23, 2025, multiple transfers were allegedly made within minutes, with five payments totalling ₹50,000 completed between 7:45 am and 8:17 am.

Police believe such tactics were designed to create urgency and prevent the victim from reconsidering his decisions.

Cyber Fraud Concerns

The case has once again highlighted the growing threat posed by online investment scams operating through social media and messaging platforms.

Police officials said many fraudsters exploit people's desire for quick financial gains by offering unrealistic returns and false guarantees. Authorities have advised citizens to avoid clicking unknown links and to verify the legitimacy of any investment platform before transferring money.

Cyber experts also caution that several groups claiming to offer forex trading opportunities on Telegram and WhatsApp operate without regulatory oversight and are often linked to fraudulent activities.

Investigation Continues

Pachpedi police have registered a case against unidentified accused persons and initiated efforts to identify those behind the Telegram group. Investigators are analysing digital evidence, bank account details and transaction records as part of the probe.

Officials have urged anyone approached with similar investment offers to report the matter immediately and avoid schemes promising unusually high returns in a short period.

A major online IPL betting racket linked to hawala transactions and international betting networks has been busted by Chhattisgarh Police after a raid in Goa led to the arrest of six accused allegedly operating illegal cricket betting operations. Investigators revealed that the accused were using an application capable of providing live cricket match updates nearly seven seconds before public television broadcasts, helping them manipulate betting rates and gain an advantage during IPL matches.

The operation was carried out by Raigarh Police in connection with an online cricket betting case registered under the Kotwali police station limits. Officials said the accused were operating from a rented villa near Candolim Beach in Goa, where they managed betting IDs, coordinated transactions and handled real-time IPL betting activities connected to several cities across central India.

According to police officials, the arrested accused have been identified as Amit Mittal, Mohit Somani, Prakash Wadhwani, Akash Motwani, Rahul Khandelwal alias Babu and Sulabh Khandelwal alias Chhota Babu. Investigators said all six accused were actively engaged in online cricket betting and were linked to a larger betting syndicate associated with a network allegedly operated by a figure identified as “Mannu Nathani,” who is believed to be connected to a wider illegal betting operation in central India.

Police sources stated that the accused received betting IDs from Dubai-based operators and distributed them to local agents and players across multiple cities. The betting network reportedly functioned in a layered structure where larger handlers supplied IDs to smaller operators and agents in exchange for commissions on transactions and betting activities.

Officials revealed that the accused used a specialised live-update application that delivered match developments approximately seven seconds earlier than regular television or online streaming broadcasts. This time advantage allowed the syndicate to update betting rates instantly during IPL matches and profit from rapid changes in odds before regular users could react. Investigators believe the technology gave operators a significant edge over ordinary bettors and generated large-scale profits during ongoing IPL matches.

The investigation reportedly began after earlier arrests in an online cricket betting case involving accused Karan Chaudhary alias Karan Agrawal, Pushkar Agrawal and Sunil Agrawal. During questioning, police received important leads regarding a wider hawala network and connections to major betting syndicates operating across multiple states. Following these disclosures, cyber cell officials and Kotwali police initiated a technical investigation that eventually traced digital activity from Raigarh, Raipur, Sakti and Kharsia to Goa.

Acting on the inputs, police teams conducted raids at the rented villa in the Candolim Beach area. Officials claimed the accused attempted to destroy mobile phones and important documents after receiving information about the police action. However, police teams managed to seize 10 mobile phones and several digital records during the operation. Authorities are now examining electronic evidence to identify additional operators, financial links and betting transactions associated with the network.

Investigators said preliminary examination of seized devices revealed evidence of hawala transactions used for transferring large sums linked to betting operations. Police sources stated that serial numbers of currency notes and coded financial details were allegedly shared through mobile applications as part of the illegal money transfer mechanism. Earlier during the investigation, authorities had also seized more than Rs 1 crore in cash from persons linked to the betting network.

Police officials further stated that several of the accused already have criminal cases related to online betting registered against them in different districts. Amit Mittal reportedly faces cases connected to cricket betting in Raigarh, Kharsia and Gharghoda, while Mohit Somani is said to have multiple betting-related cases registered in Raipur. Authorities believe the remaining accused were also actively associated with illegal betting operations for a considerable period.

The investigation has also pointed toward similarities with the controversial Mahadev betting app network, where betting IDs allegedly originated from Dubai-based handlers before being routed to operators in Indian metropolitan cities. From there, agents reportedly distributed the IDs to smaller betting operators and players across cities including Nagpur, Raipur and other parts of central India.

Officials said the latest arrests have exposed another layer of organised online betting operations that combine digital platforms, offshore operators and hawala networks. Police are now examining whether additional financial channels, shell operators or interstate syndicates are connected to the racket. Authorities are also investigating the scale of online transactions conducted through the betting network during the ongoing IPL season.

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A major illegal gambling network has been exposed in Chhattisgarh’s Durg district, where police have busted an IPL betting racket allegedly operating through online applications and mobile phones. The city Kotwali police action has led to the arrest of seven accused so far, with investigators claiming that crores of rupees were being circulated through the network during ongoing IPL matches.

According to officials, the racket was being operated in a highly organised manner, using digital platforms, cash exchanges and coded communication to avoid detection. The operation came to light after sustained surveillance and intelligence inputs.

Police Conduct Coordinated Raids

The crackdown on the IPL betting racket began after police received specific inputs about illegal betting activities being conducted during live IPL matches. Acting swiftly, the Durg city Kotwali police team carried out coordinated raids at multiple locations.

During the initial raid, three accused were caught red-handed while allegedly placing and managing bets during a live IPL match between Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals. The accused were identified as Vikas Jain, Raunak Tamrakar, and Praveen Tamrakar. Police officials said that betting activities were being conducted using mobile phones and online applications that allowed real-time wagering on match outcomes, player performances and in-game events.

Four More Accused Arrested

Following sustained interrogation and digital tracking, police expanded their investigation into the IPL betting racket and arrested four more individuals linked to the network. The newly arrested accused have been identified as Akshat Bohre, Mohammad Adil, Mohammad Ayyub, and Prakash Soni. All four were taken into custody after their alleged involvement surfaced during questioning of the earlier arrested suspects. Police stated that these individuals played different roles, including handling transactions, managing clients, and maintaining betting records.

Digital Betting Network Exposed

Investigators revealed that the IPL betting racket was not limited to physical interactions but was largely driven by mobile technology and online betting platforms. The accused reportedly used smartphones, encrypted messaging apps and betting software to coordinate wagers. Transactions were often routed through multiple accounts to avoid detection by authorities. Officials believe the network was structured in a way that allowed quick movement of money during live matches, making it difficult to trace without digital forensics.

Cash, Devices and Records Seized

During the raids linked to the IPL betting racket, police recovered several key pieces of evidence. These include eight mobile phones, ₹9,810 in cash, pocket diaries containing betting entries, and pen drives with transaction records.

Authorities said the seized diaries contained detailed accounts of betting amounts, player selections, match outcomes and payouts. These records are now being analysed to understand the financial scale of the operation. Police officials also confirmed that multiple mobile devices contained chat histories and app-based transaction logs that directly connect the accused to betting activities.

Key Role of Main Accused

According to police, the IPL betting racket was allegedly being operated by Vikas Jain, a resident of Rishabh Nagar in Durg. He is believed to be one of the key operators managing the betting network at the local level. Investigators said Jain used mobile apps to coordinate bets during live IPL matches, while maintaining contact with other accused who handled money collection and client coordination. Police sources added that the accused were highly active during match hours, placing and settling bets in real time to maximise turnover.

Initial Arrests Trigger Breakthrough

The first breakthrough in the IPL betting racket came when police conducted a raid during a live IPL match and detained three individuals on the spot. The accused were found actively involved in betting operations, with mobile phones displaying live betting interfaces and ongoing transactions. Subsequent interrogation led to the identification of additional members of the network. Officials believe this initial arrest helped expose a wider syndicate operating within and beyond Durg district.

Wider Network Under Scanner

The IPL betting racket investigation has now expanded as police attempt to trace the full extent of the illegal gambling network. Authorities suspect that the racket may have connections in other districts and possibly interstate links. Cybercrime and financial investigation teams are currently analysing call detail records, digital payment trails and online betting app data to identify additional suspects. Police officials have indicated that more arrests are likely as the probe progresses.

Financial Trail Under Investigation

Investigators are also focusing on the financial structure of the IPL betting racket, which allegedly involved continuous money circulation through cash and digital transfers. Preliminary findings suggest that funds were being routed through multiple channels to disguise the origin and destination of money. Authorities are now tracking bank accounts, UPI transactions and cash flows linked to the accused. Officials believe that the total betting turnover could be significantly higher than initial estimates.

Legal Action and Custody

All seven accused in the IPL betting racket have been booked under the Chhattisgarh Gambling Prohibition Act. Following their arrest, they have been sent to judicial custody as further investigation continues. Police officials stated that strict legal action will be taken against anyone found involved in organising or facilitating illegal betting activities during IPL matches. Authorities have also warned that digital betting platforms are under close surveillance.

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Lucknow Police Bust Fake IPL Tickets Racket Outside Ekana Stadium

Four from Chhattisgarh held for using AI to forge tickets during LSG-RCB clash

In a swift operation, Lucknow Police arrested four members of an interstate gang accused of printing and selling counterfeit IPL tickets outside the Ekana Cricket Stadium on Thursday evening. The arrests came hours after a fan was caught with a forged ticket during the Lucknow Super Giants versus Royal Challengers Bengaluru match.

The gang allegedly relied on artificial intelligence tools, including ChatGPT, along with graphic design software to create near-identical duplicates of official IPL tickets. Police said the operation targeted unsuspecting cricket enthusiasts who had travelled to Lucknow for the high-stakes IPL 2026 encounter.

How the racket was exposed

According to officials, the case surfaced when security personnel detected a suspicious ticket during routine checks at the stadium gates. Initial questioning of the ticket holder pointed to sellers operating just outside the venue. 

DCP (Lucknow South) Amit Kumar Anand told PTI that a joint team from the Cyber Cell and Sushant Golf City police station quickly swung into action. “During questioning, it was revealed that someone outside the stadium had sold the ticket,” he said. The four accused, all residents of Durg district in Chhattisgarh, were nabbed in a late-evening operation.

Police are now examining whether the gang had been active during earlier IPL matches in the city. Recovered items reportedly included fake tickets, printing materials, mobile phones, a laptop, and a vehicle used for their operations.

Tech-savvy gang from Chhattisgarh

Investigators described the arrested individuals as having educational and technical backgrounds that helped them replicate ticket layouts, barcodes, and security features with alarming accuracy. They allegedly sourced images of genuine tickets from social media and refined designs using tools like CorelDRAW, while consulting AI for details on paper quality and dimensions.

The accused had reportedly travelled specifically to Lucknow to capitalise on the demand for tickets during the LSG home games. Their activities have sparked fresh concerns about the growing misuse of generative AI in sports-related frauds across the country.

On-field excitement amid the scam

Despite the off-field controversy, the match itself provided plenty of drama. Lucknow Super Giants snapped a six-match losing streak with a nine-run victory over Royal Challengers Bengaluru under the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method. Rain interruptions reduced the contest to 19 overs per side.

Mitchell Marsh starred with a sensational century, while young pacer Prince Yadav impressed with the ball. The win kept LSG’s playoff hopes alive and gave home fans something to cheer about, even as the ticket scam news spread quickly through the stands and social media.

Rising worries over digital fraud in IPL

This is not the first instance of ticket fraud during the IPL season, but the use of AI tools has raised the alarm among authorities and fans alike. With thousands of supporters attending matches across multiple venues, verifying authenticity remains a challenge despite digital QR codes and official booking platforms.

Senior police officials indicated that cyber surveillance and coordination with IPL authorities and BCCI will be strengthened for remaining matches in Lucknow. Fans have been advised to purchase tickets only through verified channels and to report suspicious sellers immediately.

Local residents near the stadium expressed mixed reactions. While many welcomed the quick police action, some fans who missed the match or paid premium prices online voiced frustration over inadequate checks outside the venue.

What lies ahead

The arrested individuals are being questioned further, and police have not ruled out the possibility of more accomplices. Legal proceedings under relevant sections of the IPC and IT Act are underway.

As the IPL 2026 season heads into its crucial phase, this incident serves as a reminder of the need for tighter technological safeguards and public awareness to protect the spirit of the game from modern-day fraudsters.

Raipur Online Betting Racket: Three Held, Business Links Suspected

Raipur online betting racket bust sees three arrests; probe into ‘Teen Panel 777’ network and possible links to businessmen intensifies

 In a fresh crackdown on illegal online gambling, police in Raipur have arrested three individuals allegedly running an organised betting syndicate under the name “Teen Panel 777”. The Raipur online betting racket, officials say, may have links to influential business circles in the city, prompting a wider probe.

The arrests were made on Tuesday in the Telibandha police station area. The accused have been identified as Naman Jaggi, Ayush Jain and Mohammad Sarfaraz. Acting on their inputs, police have detained nine more suspects for questioning, as the investigation begins to widen.

Network under scanner

According to officials familiar with the matter, the accused were operating multiple online betting platforms simultaneously. These platforms functioned through a layered system of “master IDs” and sub-panels, allowing users to place bets while masking the identity of operators.

Preliminary findings suggest the network had been running in a structured manner for some time. “Initial reports indicate a well-coordinated setup, with clear roles assigned within the syndicate,” a senior police officer said, requesting anonymity.

Digital trail and seizures

During the operation, police seized several electronic devices, including mobile phones and laptops, along with betting records and documents linked to financial transactions running into crores. Two cars and a small amount of cash were also recovered.

Investigators are now examining the digital evidence to map out the extent of the operation and identify other beneficiaries. “The documents recovered are being analysed. They could reveal the scale of transactions and those involved,” an official said.

Business links suspected

One of the more significant angles emerging from the probe is the possible involvement of local businessmen and jewellers. Sources said the accused may have been in contact with individuals from the सर्राफा (bullion) and hotel sectors.

While officials have not confirmed any names, they indicated that this aspect is under active investigation. “We are verifying financial linkages. If there are connections with larger कारोबारी groups, action will follow accordingly,” a police official noted.

Social media role

Investigators believe the network relied heavily on messaging platforms and social media to expand its reach. Users were reportedly added through invitation links and then assigned unique IDs to participate in betting activities.

The ease of access and anonymity offered by such platforms has made online betting networks harder to track, officials admitted. However, they added that sustained surveillance helped in building the case against the accused.

Earlier arrest of mastermind

The latest arrests come weeks after the arrest of alleged mastermind Babbu Khemani—also known as Gulshan Khemani—on April 17 from Mumbai. Police had then described him as a key figure behind a high-profile betting operation inspired by popular illegal apps.

Khemani was linked to an online platform named “3 Stumps”, reportedly modelled on similar betting applications. Authorities had seized assets worth around ₹60 lakh, including a luxury car, during that कार्रवाई.

International angle probed

The investigation into Khemani also revealed a possible international dimension, particularly links to Dubai. Officials are examining whether overseas connections played a role in funding or operating the network.

There were also indications that Khemani had interacted with former IPL commissioner Lalit Modi during his travels. However, police clarified that no direct link between that meeting and the betting operations has been established so far.

Image-building strategy

Sources involved in the probe said Khemani projected himself as a successful influencer on social media, showcasing a lavish lifestyle. This, they believe, helped him attract followers and lure them into betting networks under the guise of match predictions, particularly during Indian Premier League seasons.

“Users were drawn in through prediction tips and then redirected to betting panels,” a source said.

Investigation continues

Police officials indicated that further arrests in the Raipur online betting racket are likely in the coming days. The focus remains on dismantling the entire network and identifying its financial backbone.

A detailed disclosure of the matter is expected later in the evening, as investigators continue questioning suspects and analysing seized material.

Bilaspur retired professor duped of ₹1.04 crore in 7-day 'digital arrest' ordeal

A retired college professor in Bilaspur was swindled of over ₹1 crore after cybercriminals kept her under 'digital arrest' for a week, using threats of terror funding charges and harm to her family.

In a chilling case of cyber fraud that underscores the rising vulnerability of senior citizens to digital scams, an 82-year-old retired professor in Bilaspur’s Civil Lines area was defrauded of ₹1.04 crore. The victim, Raman Srivastava, who previously served at DP College, was kept under "digital arrest" for seven days by fraudsters posing as law enforcement officers.

The scammers allegedly used sophisticated psychological pressure, sending forged documents from the Supreme Court and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to convince the victim she was embroiled in a terror funding investigation linked to the banned Popular Front of India (PFI).

The initial hook and intimidation

The ordeal began on the morning of April 20, when Prof. Srivastava received a WhatsApp video call from an unknown number. The caller identified himself as ‘Sanjay PSI’ and immediately began interrogating her. According to the police complaint, the fraudster claimed that her bank accounts were being used for money laundering and terror activities.

To solidify the fear, the criminals kept her on a video call for over two hours initially, forbidding her from disconnecting or contacting anyone. They presented fake bank statements and debit cards in her name, claiming her phone was being monitored.

A week of psychological captivity

Between April 20 and April 27, the retired professor did not step out of her house in the Real Heaven colony. The scammers told her that a specialized team was stationed near her residence to arrest her if she attempted to flee or alert the authorities.

"The victim was in such a state of panic that she believed her every move was being watched," a source familiar with the investigation said. Under this immense pressure, she followed the instructions to "clear her name" by transferring funds into what she was told were "government-verified" accounts for auditing.

Staggered transfers of life savings

The financial exploitation happened in phases as the victim desperately tried to avoid jail time. On April 21, she transferred ₹20 lakh, followed by ₹34.20 lakh the next day. By April 24, she had made four major transfers totaling ₹1,04,80,000.

Local authorities confirmed that the victim exhausted almost her entire life savings during this period. The scammers even threatened that if she failed to cooperate, her son—a director at an HR consultancy in Mumbai—and her grandson would also be arrested and jailed.

How the scam was exposed

The fraud came to light on April 27 when the criminals, unsatisfied with the initial haul, sent a fake ED warrant cancellation letter and demanded an additional ₹50 lakh to "permanently close" the case. With her accounts empty, Prof. Srivastava called her son, Prashant, in Mumbai, pleading for the money and crying that she would be sent to jail otherwise.

Sensing something was wrong, Prashant immediately flew to Bilaspur. Upon hearing the details, he realized his mother had been a victim of a "digital arrest" scam and reported the matter to the Range Cyber Police Station.

Rising trend of digital arrests

The Range Cyber Police have registered a case under relevant sections of the IT Act and the Indian Penal Code. Officials noted that this is not an isolated incident. Between December 2025 and early 2026, Bilaspur has seen a sharp 30-40% increase in digital arrest complaints.

Earlier this year, a local businessman was duped of ₹57 lakh using a similar modus operandi involving money laundering threats. In another case in Raipur, a retired veterinary doctor lost ₹1.28 crore after being intimidated by individuals posing as Mumbai Crime Branch officers.

Police have urged citizens, especially the elderly, to remember that no government agency—be it the Police, CBI, or ED—conducts arrests or investigations via WhatsApp video calls or demands money to "settle" criminal cases.

Cyber Fraud in Raipur: Three Residents Duped of ₹8 Lakh in Separate Incidents

Raipur cyber fraud cases continue to rise as miscreants target residents through sophisticated phishing, mobile hacking, and fake insurance updates.

Raipur: In a series of alarming incidents, cyber criminals have swindled approximately ₹8 lakh from three separate individuals in the capital city. Using a mix of predatory loan traps, credit card fraud, and fake consumer court threats, the perpetrators managed to siphon off money before the victims could realize they were being scammed. Local police have registered separate FIRs, and specialized teams are currently tracking the digital footprints of the fraudsters.

The Loan App Blackmail Trap

The most severe case was reported from the Tikrapara area, involving a private sector employee, Vishal Gupta. On March 10, 2026, Gupta had applied for a modest online loan of ₹10,000. Instead of processing a legitimate loan, the suspects informed him that a higher amount—₹40,000—had been approved.

Under the guise of the application process, the fraudsters gained remote access to Gupta’s mobile device. They allegedly accessed his personal gallery, morphed his private photos into obscene content, and then used this to extort money. Sources indicate that the victim was coerced into transferring nearly ₹6 lakh under the constant threat of having his reputation destroyed on social media.

Army Personnel Targeted

In a separate incident under the Saraswati Nagar police station limits, a serving Army Subedar, Harishchandra Singh, fell prey to a phishing scam. On April 17, he received a phone call from an individual claiming to be a representative from Axis Bank.

The caller offered to help him redeem accumulated reward points on his credit card. The perpetrator guided the Subedar to a fraudulent website and requested his card credentials. Shortly after entering the details, Singh received alerts of unauthorized transactions totaling ₹1,99,996. Realizing the deception, he promptly contacted the bank’s customer care and registered a complaint via the 1930 national cybercrime helpline.

Fake Insurance Claims

The third case involves a fruit trader, Jaykumar Wadhwani, a resident of Amlidih, who was targeted through a convoluted insurance scheme. The suspects contacted Wadhwani, claiming his ICICI Prudential life insurance policy was facing losses and required urgent intervention.

The callers created a false sense of panic by mentioning fictitious legal actions in a "Consumer Court." They then sent a malicious link under the pretext of providing a "freezing code" to secure his policy. Once Wadhwani clicked the link, the suspects gained access to his banking information and withdrew ₹55,000 from his account.

Police Urge Public Caution

Raipur police officials have reiterated their warning regarding unsolicited calls and suspicious links. Investigators noted that these gangs often operate from outside the state, making recovery difficult.

"People must remain vigilant against 'urgent' calls regarding bank details or insurance updates. Never click on unverified links or share OTPs," said an officer familiar with the ongoing investigations. As of now, authorities are analyzing the bank accounts where the stolen funds were transferred, hoping to trace the perpetrators behind this wave of Raipur cyber fraud.

In a fresh crackdown on illegal betting, Bhilai Police arrested a man accused of operating an online satta racket from inside a car in Bhilai, officials said on Sunday. The accused was allegedly running bets through a mobile application and accepting wagers linked to online satta activity in the city.

Police identified the accused as Irfan Pasha, 35, a resident of Khursipar in Bhilai. He was taken into custody by Chhawani police after a tip-off led officers to the spot where he was allegedly handling betting operations through the “Guru 777” app.

Police Act Swiftly

According to officials, the police received specific information that a man was conducting online betting near the Baikunth Dham Vatika gate in Camp-2 area of Bhilai. Acting on the input, a police team moved quickly and laid a trap in the area.

As per reports, officers reached the location and cordoned off the stretch before intercepting a Hyundai Creta parked near the spot. The accused was inside the vehicle when the police began checking the car.

Accused Caught In Car

During the search, police found the accused allegedly operating online satta through electronic devices from inside the vehicle. Officials said he was using the app to facilitate betting and collect stakes linked to wins and losses.

Investigators suspect the accused was using the mobile platform to connect bettors and process gambling transactions in real time. Police said the operation was being run in a manner designed to avoid immediate detection.

Devices Worth Lakhs Seized

During the raid, police seized several electronic gadgets and a vehicle allegedly used in the betting operation. The recovered items include a Hyundai Creta, a Dell Inspiron laptop, an iPhone 16 Pro Max and another smartphone.

Officials said the seized materials are worth several lakh rupees and are believed to have been used to manage betting activity. The devices will now be examined for digital evidence as part of the investigation.

Betting App Under Lens

Preliminary investigation suggests the accused was using the “Guru 777” application to run the online satta network. Police said the app was allegedly used to enrol users, accept betting entries and manage money linked to gambling outcomes.

Sources indicated that the accused earned money by allowing people to place bets on outcomes and by handling online wagering through the platform. Investigators are now examining whether others were linked to the network.

Case Registered

Police have registered a case against the accused under provisions of the Public Gambling Act and other relevant legal sections. Officials said further charges may be added after forensic scrutiny of the seized devices and financial records.

According to police sources, investigators are also checking transaction trails, call records and digital communication recovered from the laptop and mobile phones. The probe will focus on identifying possible links to a wider online betting network.

Wider Crackdown Continues

The latest action comes amid continued police operations against illegal online betting in Durg district. Law enforcement agencies have stepped up surveillance on digital gambling platforms as online satta cases continue to surface across urban pockets. Officials said the Bhilai online satta case remains under investigation and more arrests cannot be ruled out.

Fake Baba Nirmal Arrested for Rape on Medical Pretext in Chhattisgarh

Victim Lured to Hotel in Maihar

Janjgir-Champa (Chhattisgarh): A 60-year-old self-styled godman, Nirmal Baba, has been arrested for allegedly raping a woman in Chhattisgarh’s Janjgir-Champa district. The accused exploited her by promising a miraculous cure for body pain.

Police arrested the accused, a resident of Nashik in Maharashtra, from Himachal Pradesh. Officials confirmed that he also took nude photographs of the victim and uploaded them on Instagram to blackmail her.

How the Accused Gained Trust

The survivor, a local woman, first met Nirmal Baba during Chaitra Navratri. He was on a foot pilgrimage in the Pamgarh area, claiming supernatural healing powers.

Suffering from chronic body pain, she approached him for treatment with a friend. The baba examined her hand, promised a complete cure, and collected her mobile number to build a false sense of security.

Hotel Rape and Photo Sharing

According to the First Information Report (FIR) filed on April 11, the baba called the victim to a market on March 26. He gave her ‘prasad’ to gain complete control over her judgment.

Later, he took her to Bilaspur and then to a hotel in Maihar, Madhya Pradesh, by train. Officials stated that he repeatedly assaulted her under the guise of treatment and captured explicit images.

Blackmail via Fake Instagram ID

After the incident, the accused continued harassing the survivor through calls. When she blocked his number, he created a fake Instagram profile in her name.

He uploaded the nude photos to threaten and extort her. This cyber crime forced the woman to approach the Pamgarh police station, triggering a high-priority investigation.

Police Action and Arrest from Himachal

Following the complaint, Superintendent of Police Nivedita Pal formed a special team. Officials said technical surveillance and intelligence inputs helped trace the accused’s location.

ASP Umesh Kumar Kashyap and SDOP Akaltara Pradeep Kumar Sori led the operation. The team raided a location in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh, and arrested the absconding baba.

Charges Filed Under BNS and IT Act

Police have registered a case under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) Section 64(2)(m) for rape and IT Act Section 67 for publishing obscene material. The accused has confessed to his crime during interrogation.

Judicial remand has been ordered for the accused. Police are also investigating whether he has duped or assaulted other women across multiple states.

Rising Concern Over Fake Godmen

This latest India News Update highlights a growing pattern of sexual exploitation by fraudulent religious figures. Authorities have urged the public to verify credentials before trusting self-proclaimed healers.

Cyber cells are now scanning for similar fake profiles used in blackmail schemes. As this Public Interest Story develops, police advise victims of such cyber crimes to report immediately rather than deleting evidence.