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Financial fraud in Meghalaya has witnessed an alarming surge, with losses amounting to ₹32 crore in 2024, a staggering increase from ₹4.2 crore in 2023. The sharp rise highlights the growing sophistication of scams, particularly those involving digital fraud and extortion tactics. As per the highly placed source within the Government.
State police have repeatedly issued advisories warning citizens against falling prey to scammers who use threats of “digital arrest” or “physical arrest” to extort large sums of money.
East Khasi Hills Superintendent of Police Vivek Syiem confirmed that various scams are being reported in the East Khasi Hills district, with fraudsters impersonating law enforcement agencies to intimidate victims into making payments. One of the most common scams involves parcel interception.
Victims receive calls from individuals posing as FedEx representatives, claiming that a suspicious package linked to their name or address has been seized, allegedly containing illegal items such as drugs or weapons. The scam escalates when the victim is transferred to someone impersonating officials from agencies like the police, CBI, ED, or NIA. Under the threat of arrest, victims are coerced into paying large sums to “resolve” the issue.
With digital fraud cases on the rise, authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and verify any suspicious calls or demands for payment before taking action.