Arrest Made in Job Scam as More Victims Come Forward

In Panchkula, authorities have arrested a suspect linked to a job scam that targeted unemployed individuals with false promises of government employment. The accused, identified as Prithvi Raj from Ambala, was taken into custody after a complaint was filed by Nirmal Kumar, a local resident, who alleged that Raj had promised him a position as a data entry operator with the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and the Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT).

The investigation began when Kumar reported that Raj had deceived him and others by creating a façade of legitimacy. The scam involved Raj depositing Rs 12,000 into victims’ bank accounts, leading them to believe they had secured a job. However, the individuals soon discovered they had been swindled. Following Raj’s arrest, more victims have come forward, prompting the police to expand their investigation.

Details of the Scam Emerge

Raj was initially accused of defrauding at least 11 individuals and was placed on a four-day police remand for questioning. During this time, he reportedly revealed the names of additional victims, indicating that the number of affected individuals could be much higher. Police have confirmed that the Economic Offences Wing (EOW) has already recovered Rs 2.4 lakh from Raj and anticipates recovering more funds in the coming days.

According to Inspector Jagdish Chander of the EOW, Raj’s method involved crafting counterfeit appointment letters to appear credible. The police have registered an FIR on October 13, 2023, at the Chandimandir police station, under various sections of the Indian Penal Code. The investigation also revealed that Raj and his associates prepared forged documents using a laptop, further complicating the case.

Investigating Wider Implications

The police are currently collaborating with two government departments to ascertain whether any officials were complicit in the scheme. The emergence of further victims during the interrogation has raised concerns about the broader network involved in the scam. Five separate cases have already been initiated in Panchkula, with authorities keen to gather more evidence.

A mobile phone seized from Raj contained crucial information, including WhatsApp conversations and additional fake documents related to the scam. As the investigation unfolds, police are focused on identifying all individuals involved and ensuring that victims receive justice.

Raj’s anticipatory bail plea was denied by the court, leading to his arrest. This case serves as a cautionary tale for job seekers, emphasizing the importance of verifying employment opportunities and being vigilant against fraudulent schemes. As more victims come forward, police are committed to addressing the full extent of the scam and holding those responsible accountable.