Indore trader duped of Rs 65.5 lakh in online trading fraud after social media ad lure

Indore: A city-based trader was duped of Rs 65.57 lakh in an online trading fraud after being lured through a social media advertisement promising high returns. Aerodrome police have registered an FIR against unidentified accused on the basis of four mobile phone numbers and initiated an investigation. Complainant Deepak Chandore, a resident of Mahesh Avenue on Chhota Bangarda Road, told police that in December 2025 he came across a trading link while watching reels on social media. After clicking the link, he was added to a group titled "A69 ABCL Wealth Navigator Club", where members regularly posted screenshots of profits, trading videos and online lectures.He observed the group's activity for nearly one month before deciding to invest. On expressing interest, he was contacted on WhatsApp by a woman, Diya Mehra, who guided him through an account-opening process. He was sent a link to a famous company and asked to fill out an online form. Subsequently, he was directed to download a mobile application from the Play Store, through which all transactions were to be conducted.Initially, he invested Rs 5000 and was shown returns on the app, which increased his confidence. From Jan 29, 2026 onwards, he began transferring larger amounts as advised. By Feb 20, the app allegedly reflected profits of nearly Rs 4 crore on his total investment.When he attempted to withdraw the funds, he was told there were technical issues. He was then persuaded to invest further in a new IPO. Repeated attempts to recover the money failed and he eventually realised he was defrauded of Rs 65.57 lakh. A complaint was later lodged with the cyber cell."A case has been registered and further investigation is underway," said Tarun Bhati, Aerodrome police station in-charge.He added that the complainant borrowed over Rs 25 lakh to invest. He believed that he earned the money displayed on the app.