Cyber Fraud: A contractor posing as a PMO official in Mumbai was duped of ₹7.4 million (US$1.7 million) in 2019, The full story is unrelated..

A shocking case has come to light in Mumbai, where a contractor posing as an official from the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) defrauded an astrologer of Rs 7.4 million. Mumbai Crime Branch Unit 11 has arrested the contractor, Ravi Narottam Sharma, 38, in connection with the case.

How did this fraud happen?

According to the police, Ravi Sharma deceived a city-based astrologer by claiming he had strong connections within the Prime Minister's Office (PMO). He told the astrologer that he could use his influence to secure two MHADA (Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority) shops for him. Astrologers are often approached by people seeking solutions to their problems or predictions. Sharma took advantage of this and trapped the astrologer.

Fake Seals and False Confidence

To prove his point, the accused, Ravi Sharma, even showed fake seals from several government offices. Seeing these seals, the astrologer believed Sharma was telling the truth and had good connections within government departments. The police have now recovered all these fake seals. These seals reveal the systematic manner in which Sharma was carrying out this fraud.

Police Custody and Further Investigation

The police produced Ravi Sharma in the Esperance Court and sought his custody. The police say they need to investigate the matter thoroughly. Officials told the court that Sharma was found in possession of fake government seals from several departments. This raises suspicion that he may have defrauded not only this astrologer but also many other people in a similar manner.

A Larger Syndicate Suspected
The police are now investigating Ravi Sharma's bank accounts. They are trying to determine whether a larger syndicate is behind this fraud. The police also want to determine whether any of Sharma's associates or any government officials are involved in this case. The scope of this entire case appears to be quite large, and the police hope that many more shocking revelations may emerge during the interrogation.

Appeal to the Public
The Mumbai Crime Branch has appealed to the public that if they have any information about any such suspicious person or case, they should immediately inform the police. This arrest is being considered a major success for the Crime Branch, which could lead to the uncovering of more such scams in the future. The police have assured that the investigation is ongoing and more important information will be revealed soon.

How to Avoid Fraud?

These days, cases of fraud have increased significantly. In such a situation, it is very important to protect your hard-earned money.

Investigate: If someone asks you for money under the pretext of a government job, a shop, or anything else, do not immediately trust them. First, thoroughly verify their statements and identity.

Verify Documents: Carefully examine any government document or seal. If you have even the slightest doubt, go to the relevant government department and verify it.

Beware of Greed: Scammers often take advantage of people's greed. Be wary of any offers that promise high profits in a short period of time.
Inform the police: If you suspect someone or believe someone is trying to defraud you, immediately inform the police.

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