May 31, 2025 – Srinagar:
In a significant breakthrough, Srinagar Police have uncovered and dismantled an online fraud operation involving a fabricated medical donation appeal circulated through Facebook.
The case came to light on May 30 when Muneer Ahmad Misger, a resident of Mughal Masjid, Nowhatta, filed a formal complaint at Police Station Nowhatta. He alleged that a social media post falsely portrayed his sister as needing urgent medical surgery and solicited donations from the public. The post, accompanied by her photograph, was entirely fabricated and aimed at deceiving donors.
Acting swiftly, police registered an FIR No. 21/2025 under sections 318(2) and 319(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and launched a thorough investigation.
The inquiry led to the arrest of Mohammad Lateef Lone, son of Ali Mohammad Lone from Tujan, Pulwama, who was identified as the administrator of the Facebook page responsible for the post. Further investigation revealed that Amir Yousuf Khan, originally from Bandipora and currently residing in Gulab Bagh, Zakoora, had facilitated the fraudulent scheme by providing the bank account used to collect donations. He was also taken into custody.
Both individuals are now under arrest, and the investigation continues to trace any other culprits connected to the scam.
Authorities have warned the public and media not to share or promote the fraudulent post, emphasizing that doing so could amplify the impact of the scam and further harm the victim’s family.
The Jammu & Kashmir Police have urged citizens to stay alert and immediately report any suspicious online fundraising campaigns to local police stations.
