Kolkata cyber police bust ₹13.6 lakh fake hotel booking scam, key accused arrested in Pune

Kolkata cyber police have arrested a Pune-based web services operator in connection with a large-scale online hotel booking fraud that cheated at least 83 people of ₹13.6 lakh. The accused allegedly created multiple fake websites impersonating reputed hotels and induced victims to make payments under the pretext of room bookings, which never materialised.

According to the investigation, the accused and his associates entered into a criminal conspiracy and used fabricated electronic records, forged identities and misleading online content to gain the trust of unsuspecting customers. Victims were persuaded to transfer money to various bank accounts and QR codes after being shown photographs of hotel rooms and receiving repeated assurances over phone calls.

One of the complainants reported attempting to book a hotel room in Puri through a website that appeared legitimate. After making multiple payments following instructions from individuals posing as hotel staff, the complainant received no booking confirmation and all contact ceased, prompting him to report the matter through the national cybercrime portal and at his local police station.

During the probe, cyber police traced the fake website hosting details to an overseas domain service provider and identified an email account linked to the operation. Further technical analysis led investigators to a mobile number and internet connections, which eventually pointed to the accused operating from Pune.

Following court-issued warrants, coordinated raids were conducted at the accused’s residence and office, where digital devices were seized through legally recorded procedures. The accused was arrested from his office premises and informed of the grounds of arrest, with authorities stating that further investigation is underway to identify other individuals involved in the racket.