Bhubaneswar: The state crime branch on Friday arrested a city-based trading consultant on charges of duping a 52-year-old employee of an IT company of Rs 2 crore by promising unusually high returns in a short span of time.The accused was identified as Manoranjan Rout, 42, a resident of Hansapal area here. Police said Rout played a key role in orchestrating the fraud, which was executed through social media and messaging platforms.The case came to light after the victim lodged a complaint with the cyber cell of the crime branch on Oct 14, 2025. He alleged that unidentified cyber fraudsters first contacted him through a social media platform and later added him to an instant messaging group.Members of the group convinced him to invest in multiple schemes, assuring high and guaranteed returns. Trusting their claims, the victim transferred Rs 2.01 crore in multiple transactions between July and Sept last year to several bank accounts linked to the fraudsters.“Following a detailed probe into the transaction trail and digital evidence, investigators zeroed in on Rout. A raid was conducted in Bhubaneswar, leading to his arrest. Efforts are on to identify others involved in the racket,” SP of crime branch, Smit Parmar, said. Police seized incriminating materials, including mobile phones, SIM cards and other digital devices used in the crime. Rout was produced before a court, which rejected his bail plea and remanded him in judicial custody.Officers said the case highlights the growing menace of cyber fraudsters who exploit people’s trust and lure them with promises of quick profits. “Fraudsters are increasingly using social media and messaging apps to target unsuspecting individuals. People must remain cautious and avoid falling prey to such schemes,” Parmar said.Police urged citizens to verify the authenticity of investment offers before transferring money. They advised reporting suspicious activities immediately to the 1930 cyber helpline or the nearest police station.With cybercrime cases on the rise, police reiterated the importance of awareness and vigilance. “No legitimate financial institution guarantees doubling of investments in such short periods. Public cooperation is crucial in preventing such frauds,” the SP added.
