Lucknow: A case of large-scale fraud involving the promise of overseas employment surfaced in Shravasti district, where 3 individuals were allegedly cheated of several lakh rupees on the false assurance of securing jobs in Saudi Arabia. Acting on complaints filed by the victims, police registered 3 separate cases at Sonwa police station and initiated a detailed investigation on Sunday.According to police officials, the accused was identified as Salim alias Nankau, a resident of Nasirganj village. He is accused of luring families from Bahraich district with assurances of arranging employment for their sons in Saudi Arabia.Police said the accused approached Mausim Khan of Gulhariya village, Rahiman of Balidanpurwa, and the sons of Sahabuddin from Risiya Bazaar. Claiming strong overseas contacts, Salim allegedly convinced them that he could secure well-paying jobs abroad.As per the complaints, Salim collected Rs 2.20 lakh from Mausim Khan and Rahiman, while an additional Rs 1.10 lakh was taken from Sahabuddin. The victims stated that a total of Rs 3.30 lakh was paid to the accused in July 2025.Despite repeated assurances, the promised jobs were not arranged, and the money was not returned. When the victims later demanded a refund, the accused allegedly threatened them with dire consequences, including threats to their lives. Left with no alternative, the victims approached the Superintendent of Police on Jan 12.The complainants said they earlier approached Sonwa police station, but no action was taken at that time. Following directions from senior police officials, fresh action was initiated, and based on the written complaints, 3 separate cases were registered against the accused.Police officials stated that investigation is underway, and all financial transactions, communication records, and other evidence are being examined.
