ED Uncovers Fake Call Centre Syndicate Targeting US Nationals in Punjab, Maharashtra, Chandigarh
· India · The Hindu, Indian Express
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) raided four locations in Patiala, Pune, and Chandigarh, uncovering a fake call centre syndicate that defrauded US nationals. The raids, conducted under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), revealed three call centres—two in Patiala and one in Pune—employing around 220 people to scam victims using fake pretexts. Authorities seized 66 mobile phones, 13 laptops, and financial records, including evidence of US dollar-to-rupee conversions. The Chandigarh premises were linked to the mastermind coordinating operations. The ED is analysing digital evidence to trace the full extent of the syndicate’s operations and financial flows.
Why it matters
The crackdown exposes a large-scale fraud targeting US citizens, posing risks to both victims and India’s financial integrity. It also highlights systemic vulnerabilities in call centre operations, which could prompt stricter regulatory oversight in the sector.
Read the original report — The Hindu
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