Cyber Crime
Retired IPS Officer Victimized in a Rs 381 Crore Cyber Fraud
PRAYAGRAJ: Former Uttar Pradesh IPS officer DK Panda, previously known for appearing in public as Radha due to his deep devotion to Lord Krishna, has found himself in the limelight once again—this time as a victim of a massive cyber fraud. Panda claims he earned Rs 381 crore through online trading, only to have it stolen by cybercriminals. In response, he has filed an FIR at the Dhoomanganj police station and requested a CBI and NIA probe.
The Case in Detail
DK Panda, who retired early from the Uttar Pradesh Police as an IG, gained public attention years ago for his distinctive appearance as Radha. Now residing in Prayagraj as “Baba Krishnanand,” Panda alleges that he recently lost Rs 381 crore in an online investment scam involving a company in London. Panda stated that his funds, accumulated through successful trading, never reached his bank account, prompting him to file a formal complaint.
Investment in a London-based Company
Panda claims he invested a significant sum in the London-based Finiex Group following the advice of an individual named Rahul, whom he met online. Rahul allegedly introduced Panda to lucrative returns in online trading, showing him a substantial profit. However, when Panda attempted to withdraw his earnings, he discovered the funds were unavailable, making him realize he had been defrauded. Police have registered the case and launched an investigation.
Verbal Abuse and Threats
According to Panda, when he confronted the alleged fraudsters, they demanded more money. After he refused, one individual, identified as Aarav Sharma from Cyprus, reportedly began using abusive language and even threatened to misuse Panda’s identification documents, including his Aadhar and PAN cards. Aarav allegedly threatened to implicate Panda in terrorist funding activities. Deeply alarmed, Panda asserts that these threats were intended to coerce him into complying with the fraudsters’ demands.
Requests for CBI and NIA Involvement
Having previously served as a senior police officer, Panda knows the gravity of such threats. He has formally requested that the case be transferred to the CBI or NIA for further investigation. Dhoomanganj Station Officer Amarnath Rai confirmed that an FIR has been filed based on Panda’s complaint, and police are currently examining all aspects of the case.
From Respected Officer to Cyber Victim
A 1971-batch officer and native of Odisha, DK Panda was once feared by criminals during his tenure as DIG and IG. However, in 2005, he resigned from service after publicly declaring himself to be Radha, Krishna’s consort, which led to some controversy. Panda later embraced his identity as “Krishnanand” and withdrew from public life. Now, he faces a new ordeal as a victim of cyber fraud, a harsh contrast to his former life battling crime.
In recent developments, Panda alleges that additional individuals from Cyprus have pressured him to comply with their demands. A man named Deepak reportedly contacted him, identifying himself as Aarav Sharma’s associate, to encourage further interaction with the accused.
The case has sparked significant attention as it highlights both the vulnerability of even well-known figures to cyber fraud and the potential international elements involved in cybercrime.