Archive · 2 Sep 2026
Adilabad Police Arrest Suspect in Rs 5.3 Crore Instagram Fraud
Police in Adilabad arrested a 22-year-old man accused of running an online scam.
He allegedly used Instagram to offer mobile chargers, displays and other accessories for sale.
Buyers were asked to pay in advance using online payments or QR codes.
One shop owner paid Rs.2.18 lakh but did not receive the goods.
The sellers allegedly sent a courier receipt and gave different reasons for delaying delivery.
Police said around 140 people in 19 states may have been affected.
The reported losses were more than Rs.5.30 crore.
Police advised people to check online sellers carefully and call 1930 quickly if they are cheated.
Adilabad police arrested 22-year-old Prakash Kumar of Rajasthan over an alleged Instagram-based mobile-accessories scam.
Police said about 140 victims across 19 states suffered reported losses exceeding Rs.5.30 crore.
A mobile shop owner alleged that he paid Rs.2.18 lakh for accessories that were never delivered.
The complainant contacted Cyber Crime Helpline 1930 after failing to find the promised courier office.
Police seized two mobile phones and Rs.1 lakh in cash, while further investigation continues.
- Who
- Adilabad police arrested Prakash Kumar, 22, from Rajasthan; Superintendent of Police Akhil Mahajan announced the reported findings.
- What
- Kumar was arrested for allegedly cheating people through Instagram and other online communication while offering mobile spare parts and accessories.
- When
- The complainant made payments from July 25 to August 8 and reported the suspected fraud on August 22; the arrest followed the investigation.
- Where
- The case was registered by Ichoda Police in Adilabad district, Telangana, while police said alleged victims were located across 19 states.
- Why
- The alleged scheme took advance payments from customers who were promised mobile accessories and courier delivery.
- Accused
- Prakash Kumar, 22, from Jalore district, Rajasthan
- Reported victims
- Approximately 140 people across 19 states
- Reported loss
- More than Rs.5.30 crore
- Complainant’s payment
- Rs.2.18 lakh in multiple transactions
- Seized items
- Two mobile phones and Rs.1 lakh cash
- Reported platforms
- Instagram and WhatsApp, with payments made through online methods and QR codes
- Helpline
- Cyber Crime Helpline 1930
