Cyber Fraudster Arrested in Nalanda for Fake Char Dham Yatra Bookings
Fraudsters used online advertisements reach out victims who were willing to go on one of the India's most sought after pilgrimage circuit in high altitude Himalayas, Uttarakhand State
15th May, 2026, NALANDA, BIHAR:
The Nalanda Cyber Police have arrested a cyber criminal involved in defrauding pilgrims by offering fake helicopter and hotel bookings for the Char Dham Yatra.
Following suspicious mobile numbers flagged on the cyber police portal, law enforcement conducted an operation in the Sarbahdi village under the Manpur police station area. The operation led to the arrest of Manish Kumar, also known as Monu, son of Saryug Mahto.
Modus Operandi
According to the police, the accused used advertisements to target individuals planning the Char Dham Yatra. After collecting passenger data, he would send photos of hotels, confirm helicopter availability based on travel dates, and demand advance payments. Additionally, the accused operated as a fake agent for various loan companies to deceive victims.
Case Status and Seizures
- Case Registration: A case (Nalanda Cyber Thana Case No. 125/26) was registered on May 13, 2026. The accused has been produced before the court and is currently in judicial custody.
- Recoveries: Police recovered three touchscreen smartphones from the accused.
Investigation Team
The operation was successfully executed by a team from the Nalanda Cyber Police Station and the District Intelligence Unit, including:
- Inspector Kumari Usha Sinha, Sub-Inspector Shailesh Kumar Jha
- Sub-Inspector Abu Talib Ansari, Constable Punesh Kumar
- Constable Vijay Kumar