A trader from Rewa has allegedly been duped of nearly ₹20,000 after placing an online order for edible oil through a business-to-business trade portal. The victim transferred the payment after confirming the order, but neither received the goods nor managed to contact the seller, prompting a police complaint and a cyber fraud investigation.

The incident was reported under the Civil Lines police station limits, where authorities have begun examining bank transaction details and other digital evidence to trace the accused.

Order Placed Through Trade Portal

According to the complaint, the victim, Nilesh Kumar Tripathi, a resident of Dhekha area in Rewa, had placed an order for Sikka-brand edible oil for business purposes through a profile operating under the name Shree Balaji Traders on the TradeIndia portal.

After the order was confirmed, the trader transferred approximately ₹20,000 online to complete the purchase.

Delivery Never Arrived

Despite making the payment, the ordered consignment was never delivered.

When the trader attempted to contact the seller using the mobile number provided on the portal, he reportedly found that his number had been blocked. Calls made from another phone also went unanswered.

Suspecting that he had fallen victim to an online fraud, the trader approached the Civil Lines police station and lodged a formal complaint.

Police Begin Investigation

Police have registered the complaint and initiated an inquiry into the matter.

Investigators are examining bank transaction records, payment details, the mobile numbers used during the transaction and other technical evidence to identify those involved in the alleged fraud.

Officials are also verifying the authenticity of the seller's profile and related digital records linked to the online transaction.

Police Issue Advisory

Civil Lines police station in-charge Vijay Singh confirmed that a complaint regarding an online cheating case involving approximately ₹20,000 had been received.

He said the investigation is underway and that police are analysing the financial transaction trail along with other electronic evidence.

The officer also advised traders and consumers to verify the credibility of online sellers before making advance payments, particularly during business transactions conducted through digital platforms.

He urged citizens to immediately report any suspected cyber fraud by contacting the National Cyber Crime Helpline at 1930 or approaching the nearest police station.

Growing Concern Over Online Business Frauds

The incident highlights the increasing risks associated with online commercial transactions, where fraudsters allegedly create fake business profiles to lure buyers into making advance payments.

Cybercrime experts advise businesses to verify company credentials, check GST registration details, review seller ratings, and avoid making full advance payments without proper verification.

Police have appealed to traders to exercise caution while dealing with unfamiliar vendors and to promptly report suspicious online activities to help prevent financial fraud.