Police in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, have uncovered a major cyber fraud syndicate involving foreign nationals, with a Nigerian student identified as a key suspect.
The suspect, Saifu Mayana Umar, an MSc Nursing student, was arrested following a coordinated investigation into multiple online fraud cases reported across India. Authorities say the syndicate targeted victims by promising high returns on investments in foreign companies and stock markets.
According to investigators, Umar and his associates including another Nigerian national identified as Yusuf are linked to at least 16 cyber fraud cases, many of which originated from southern states such as Telangana and Tamil Nadu.
Police revealed that the group operated through a well-organized network, using multiple bank accounts and ATM withdrawals to quickly move and conceal funds.
Financial records show that transactions totaling approximately ₹45 lakh passed through Umar’s bank account.
Umar was apprehended at his hostel in Meerut after a joint operation involving cybercrime units from Telangana and Tamil Nadu. During a search, authorities recovered several items, including mobile phones, ATM cards, bank passbooks, a SIM card, a passport, a cheque book, and other electronic devices. These have been sent for forensic analysis to help trace the broader network.
Investigators also disclosed that one of the suspects attempted to destroy key banking documents, though some financial evidence was successfully retrieved for further examination.
Authorities are now tracking transaction trails that may extend beyond India, indicating possible international links.
During interrogation, Umar admitted that some of the funds found in his account were deposited by his associate Yusuf and later withdrawn. Police say additional suspects have been identified, and efforts are underway to obtain warrants and explore international cooperation.
Umar has since been released on notice. His passport has been confiscated, and he has been restricted to his university hostel pending further investigation.
