Pimpri Chinchwad Cyber Police Crack Rs 1.95 Crore CEO Fraud Case in 24 Hours, Accused Nabbed in Surat

In a swift and commendable operation, the Pimpri Chinchwad Cyber Police arrested a key accused within 24 hours in a high-profile CEO fraud case involving a Pune-based company. The fraud led to a loss of Rs 1.95 crore, of which Rs 1 crore has been successfully recovered.

The case unfolded when an accountant of a Bhosari MIDC-based company received WhatsApp messages from an unknown number—8196815735—impersonating the company’s director using his photo and name. The fraudster convinced the accountant that an urgent fund transfer was required for a project. Acting on these instructions, the accountant transferred Rs 1.95 crore to an account in the name of Al Software Solutions with RBL Bank Ltd.

Upon discovering the deception, the real company director raised an alarm, and a complaint was immediately lodged at the Cyber Police Station. An FIR (No. 22/2025) was registered on 15 May 2025 under IPC Sections 316(2), 318(4), 3(5) and IT Act Sections 66C and 66D.

Following the serious nature of the cyber fraud, Police Commissioner Vinaykumar Chaube ordered an intensive investigation. Under the leadership of DCP Swapna Gore, ACP Dr. Vishal Hire, and PI Ravikiran Nale, a special team was formed. Sub-Inspector Pravin Swami and Assistant Sub-Inspector Prakash Katkade led the technical probe.

During the investigation, police traced the fraudulent transactions to multiple accounts. Funds were being withdrawn from Kamrej, Surat. A team was dispatched to Surat, where CCTV footage and other evidence led to the arrest of Jenil Vasantbhai Vaghela (22), resident of 11 Maliratna Society, Nansal Road, Kamrej. He was arrested on 16 May 2025 at 12:25 PM.

Vaghela confessed to orchestrating the scam along with accomplices Prince Vinodbhai Patel and Nakul Khimane. Further investigation is ongoing to trace the entire fraudulent network. So far, Rs 1 crore has been successfully secured.

This successful operation was overseen by senior officials including Joint CP Dr. Shashikant Mahavarkar, Addl. CP Vasant Pardeshi, and executed by a dedicated team of cyber officers: Atul Lokhande, Shrikant Kabule, Swapnil Khanse, Saurabh Ghate, Deepak Bhosale, among others.

How to Prevent CEO Fraud and Cybercrime:

• Verify communications: Always confirm emails, WhatsApp, or Skype messages claiming to be from top company executives.

• Check sender credentials: Cybercriminals use email addresses resembling official company domains.

• Confirm domain authenticity: Make sure messages come from verified company domains (e.g., @companyname.com).

• Cross-check contact details: Validate suspicious mobile numbers or emails with known company contacts.

• For international payments: Always consult senior management or the company’s legal department.

• Report quickly: In case of suspected fraud, contact local police or call the cybercrime helpline at 1930.

Report cybercrimes online at: www.cybercrime.gov.in