The Odisha Crime Branch Cyber Crime Police Station arrested Subhendra Raut, alias Ri, for duping a customer of INR 3.8 lakh in a fake vehicle sale on Facebook Marketplace. Posing as a recovery agent, the accused promised a Hyundai i20 at a lower price, siphoning money through digital transfers without delivering the car, which was actually stranded in a stockyard.
Following a complaint registered on August 10, 2026, cyber police traced digital footprints and arrested the accused on August 11. The Crime Branch clarified that the vehicle's IFFCO Tokio insurance and PUC remain valid until early 2027.
Authorities have issued a strong warning urging citizens to thoroughly verify seller credentials, vehicle documents, and insurance before purchasing items via social media. Victims are advised to immediately report cyber fraud via helpline 1930 or cybercrime.gov.in.