Handwara Police recover Rs 28 lakh from cyber fraudsters, Rs 16 lakh returned to victims
Kupwara, Jul 12: The Cyber Wing of Handwara Police has recovered nearly Rs 28 lakh defrauded from members of the public through various online scams so far this year. Of this amount, Rs 16 lakh has already been returned to the rightful owners, while the remaining Rs 12 lakh has been secured and will be disbursed following the completion of legal formalities and court directions.
Providing details at a press conference, Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) Handwara, Hamid Ali, who was accompanied by SHO HandwaraVilayatSofi and officials from the cyber unit, stated that the department had received 88 cyber-related complaints this year, indicating a rise in digital fraud cases.
Hamid Ali urged the public to stay alert and report cyber fraud incidents promptly. “Timely reporting plays a crucial role in preventing financial losses and increases the likelihood of recovering defrauded funds,” he said.
In an official statement, Handwara Police described the development as a significant breakthrough in the fight against cybercrime. “In the current year, Handwara Police have recovered Rs 28 lakh defrauded from the public via online scams. Rs 16 lakh has already been restored to victims, and Rs12 lakh is secured, pending legal clearances,” the statement noted.
The police added that complaints were received from various parts of the Handwara police district. Acting swiftly, the cyber cell launched technical investigations under the close supervision of senior officers. The prompt response enabled the freezing of fraudulent transactions and recovery of funds from suspect accounts.
This development, police said, highlights the improved technical capabilities and professional readiness of Handwara Police in dealing with modern cyber threats. Victims have expressed gratitude for the timely action taken by the department.
The police have urged the public to exercise caution while using digital platforms, online banking services, and mobile applications. Citizens are advised not to share personal or financial details with unknown individuals and to immediately report suspicious activity to the nearest police station or cybercrime helpline.
