Pune: Pimpri Chinchwad and Thane Cyber Police Bust WhatsApp Share Market Investment Scam, Arrest 5 in 24 Hours
Pune News, July 03, 2025: In a swift and commendable operation, the Cyber Police units of Thane and Pimpri Chinchwad have successfully dismantled a fraudulent WhatsApp-based share market investment racket, arresting five accused within just 24 hours. The scam, which duped victims of a staggering ₹1,11,00,015, promised high returns through a fake trading platform called ‘Express’.
Modus Operandi of the Scam
The accused lured victims through WhatsApp groups and social media, offering a 15% return on investments. They convinced targets to invest money but later refused to release profits, claiming that “government taxes” needed to be paid first. The fraudsters operated via a fake trading platform and manipulated victims into transferring funds under false pretences.
Swift Police Action
The Pimpri Chinchwad Cyber Police, under the leadership of Inspector Ravikiran Naale, acted promptly upon receiving complaints. The team, including SAPO Praveen Swami, PSI Sagar Poman, and PSI Prakash Katkade, executed a well-coordinated operation, leading to the arrest of all five suspects within a day.
This crackdown highlights the growing efficiency of cybercrime units in Maharashtra, particularly in Pune’s twin cities, where digital fraud cases are on the rise. Authorities have urged citizens to verify investment schemes and avoid unsolicited financial offers on social media.
