Thu Mar 06 16:13:04 UTC 2025: ## Retired IFS Officer Loses ₹6.58 Crore in Online Investment Scam

**Chennai, March 6, 2025** – A retired Indian Forest Service (IFS) officer, K. Kaushal, has fallen victim to an online investment scam, losing ₹6.58 crore to fraudsters. Kaushal, who served as Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) until his retirement in July 2024, was reportedly lured by promises of high returns through fraudulent share trading apps.

According to police, Kaushal received WhatsApp messages in December 2024 offering lucrative investment opportunities. He subsequently downloaded two apps and transferred his life savings, retirement benefits, and proceeds from the sale of his house – totaling ₹6.58 crore – between January and March 2025, believing the investments were legitimate. He only realized he had been cheated recently.

Police have registered a complaint and launched an investigation to identify and apprehend the perpetrators. The incident serves as a stark warning against online investment scams promising unrealistically high returns.

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