Fri Jan 16 14:45:51 UTC 2026: ### Online Trading Scam Nets Arrest in Kannur

The Story:
Cyber police in Kannur have arrested K.P. Muhammed Saleem, 21, from Mukkam, Kozhikode, for allegedly defrauding a resident of Payyannur of nearly ₹1 crore through a fraudulent online share trading scheme. The arrest followed a complaint filed by V.V. Ganeshan of Payyannur, who was reportedly convinced via WhatsApp to invest money with assurances of high returns.

The victim claims he transferred ₹97.40 lakh from his bank accounts between July 3 and July 23, 2024, to accounts controlled by the accused. The funds were allegedly misappropriated without any returns or repayment of the principal. The accused, who fled abroad after the alleged fraud, was apprehended at Kozhikode while attempting to leave the country again.

Key Points:

  • Accused: K.P. Muhammed Saleem, 21, from Mukkam, Kozhikode.
  • Victim: V.V. Ganeshan, resident of Payyannur.
  • Amount defrauded: ₹97.40 lakh.
  • Timeframe of fraud: July 3 – July 23, 2024.
  • Modus operandi: Gaining trust through WhatsApp and promising high returns on online share trading.
  • Accused attempted to flee the country.
  • The cyber cell is investigating to trace the money and identify other potential victims.

Critical Analysis:
The arrest of K.P. Muhammed Saleem comes on the same day as another report of cybercrime arrests (25 persons). This indicates an escalating issue with online fraud in the region, suggesting a potential network of cybercriminals or a widespread trend of such scams.

Key Takeaways:

  • Online investment scams remain a significant threat, particularly those utilizing social media platforms like WhatsApp to lure victims.
  • The perpetrator’s attempt to flee the country underscores the organized nature of these crimes and the potential for international involvement.
  • Law enforcement is actively pursuing these cases, as evidenced by the transfer of the investigation to the cyber cell and the swift apprehension of the accused.
  • Increased public awareness and vigilance are crucial in preventing individuals from falling victim to such scams.
  • The concurrent arrest of 25 other people for cyber fraud demonstrates that online criminal activity is pervasive.

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