Bhatkal: The tranquil town of Bhatkal witnessed a sudden upheaval as the Bangalore Crime Branch Police arrived and apprehended a young man, causing widespread concern among the locals.

Sources report that seven to eight individuals, dressed in plain clothes and riding in two vehicles, descended upon a residence in Madina Colony, attempting to take a young man into custody. Alerted by the unusual scene, residents surrounded the vehicles, fearing a potential kidnapping. However, the individuals revealed themselves as Bangalore police personnel, asserting that they held an arrest warrant for the young man.

Upon uncovering the reason for the arrest, it was revealed that fraudulent money had been deposited into the youth's bank account, which was being exploited by others. The youth was allegedly receiving a commission for allowing his account to be used in this illicit activity.

The Bangalore police had initially summoned the young man to the police station, later sending an email requesting his presence in Bangalore. Ignoring these communications, the court issued a notice, followed by an arrest warrant when the youth failed to respond.

Investigations expose a larger network involved in online fraud and scams. The modus operandi includes convincing unsuspecting individuals to open bank accounts in their names, promising commissions ranging from 10% to 15%. The fraudsters, armed with necessary documents, including Aadhar cards, use the accounts to deposit fraudulent funds. Within minutes, the ill-gotten gains are withdrawn by the gang members.

More than fifty people from Bhatkal have fallen victim to these schemes, willingly offering their bank accounts, ATM cards, and other documents to the fraudulent gangs. Surprisingly, some local women are unknowingly aiding these gangs by cooperating in opening bank accounts, enticed by the promise of easy commissions.

Upon learning of the widespread fraud, the Bhatkal Muslim Youth Federation disseminated a viral voice message, urging people to remain vigilant against such scams. Federation President Azizur Rehman Ruknuddin Nadvi emphasized the need for awareness, stating that the federation has received numerous calls from those unintentionally ensnared, guiding them on how to navigate the situation.

Expressing disbelief, social worker Imtiaz Udayawar remarked on people willingly handing over their Aadhaar cards to fraudsters for a small commission. He urged those who have unwittingly opened such accounts to reach out to local organizations like Tanzeem or federation members for guidance.