STF Unveils Mega Fraud: Fake Investments and Cryptocurrency Rackets

The Uttar Pradesh Special Task Force has dismantled two significant fraud operations linked to fake share market investments, cryptocurrency, and forex schemes. Key figures include Rupesh Bhardwaj, 26, and Jatindra Ram, 41, who allegedly orchestrated the rackets, deceiving investors with promises of high returns and laundering proceeds internationally.

The Uttar Pradesh Special Task Force (STF) has uncovered two major fraud rackets involving fake share market investments, cryptocurrency, and forex schemes, officials announced on Thursday.

Rupesh Bhardwaj, residing in Ghaziabad, was arrested in Gurugram after allegedly duping investors with false promises of high returns in the stock market, according to complaints from SEBI. Bhardwaj operated X Traders Enterprises, which used counterfeit share certificates to build investor trust.

In a separate operation, the STF apprehended Jatindra Ram of Haryana for his role in a widespread cryptocurrency and forex investment fraud, using a firm named 'Sea Prime Capital' to fleece investors and launder proceeds internationally. Both individuals have been charged under various financial crime legislations.

(With inputs from agencies.)