Cybercrime – Kashmir Crime Branch Probes Covid-Era Financial Fraud Case
Cybercrime – The Crime Branch of Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday carried out searches at multiple locations as part of an ongoing investigation into an alleged financial fraud that took place during the Covid-19 pandemic. Officials confirmed that substantial funds are suspected to have been misappropriated through deceptive practices linked to medical supply procurement.
Searches Conducted Across Srinagar and Budgam
According to an official statement, the Economic Offences Wing (EOW) of the Crime Branch in Kashmir conducted coordinated searches at three separate locations across Srinagar and Budgam districts. The कार्रवाई is related to a case registered under FIR No. 11/2026, invoking several sections of the Indian Penal Code, including cheating, forgery, and criminal conspiracy, along with provisions of the Information Technology Act.
Authorities indicated that these searches are part of a broader effort to gather critical evidence, particularly financial records and digital data, which could help establish the full extent of the alleged fraud.
Complaint Triggered Investigation
The मामला came to light following a written complaint filed by a Delhi-based firm, Sanjay Trading Company, located in Najafgarh. The complaint was submitted by the firm’s proprietor, Sanjay Kumar Sahu, who alleged that he was deceived by individuals posing as intermediaries capable of facilitating large-scale medical supply orders during the peak of the pandemic.
The complainant claimed that the accused persuaded his firm to engage in transactions under the pretext of urgent Covid-related procurement requirements, exploiting the heightened demand and urgency during that period.
Accused Allegedly Used Fake Identities
Preliminary findings from the investigation suggest that the accused individuals allegedly adopted fraudulent methods to secure funds. They are believed to have impersonated government officials and representatives, presenting themselves as authorized personnel involved in supply coordination.
Officials revealed that fake allotment orders were generated in the names of various government departments and institutions. These documents were used to convince the complainant firm of the legitimacy of the transactions.
Fraudulent Accounts and Email Manipulation
Investigators also uncovered that fake email accounts were created in the name of the complainant firm. These email IDs were reportedly used to communicate false instructions and redirect payments. Additionally, bank accounts were allegedly opened fraudulently under the firm’s name to channel the funds obtained through deceit.
The accused are suspected of having diverted large sums, including funds linked to the office of the Deputy Commissioner in Anantnag. Authorities further stated that attempts were also made to extract crores of rupees from Government Medical College, Srinagar, using similar fraudulent tactics.
Ongoing Investigation and Evidence Collection
The Crime Branch has emphasized that the current searches are aimed at collecting more substantial evidence to strengthen the case. Officials are focusing on retrieving digital footprints, transaction records, and other relevant documents that could establish the financial trail and identify additional links, if any.
“The objective of these searches is to secure crucial evidence that can support the ongoing investigation,” officials stated, adding that further कार्रवाई will be taken based on the findings.
Case Registered Under Multiple Legal Provisions
Following initial verification, a formal case has been registered, and investigative proceedings are actively underway. Authorities have reiterated their commitment to ensuring accountability in cases involving public funds and fraudulent exploitation during critical periods such as the pandemic.
The investigation continues as officials work to uncover the complete scope of the alleged scam and identify all individuals involved.