Noida: Clubbing obsession drives three youths into crypto fraud, arrested

New Delhi: A seemingly harmless hobby turned into a dangerous obsession, leading three young men down a path of crime to fund their extravagant lifestyle. Noida Police recently apprehended the trio, who resorted to scamming people to satisfy their love for clubbing and indulgence. What began as simple deceit evolved into a full-blown criminal operation, with the accused luring victims with promises of cryptocurrency investments. The police recovered ₹4,50,000 in cash, a vehicle used in the crime, and illegal firearms during the arrest.

Police reveal modus operandi

According to ADCP Noida, Manish Kumar Mishra, the accused—Nishant Chauhan, Gaurav Bhati, and Sagar Bhati alias Sanky—were friends who collaborated with another individual to target unsuspecting victims outside the Delhi/NCR region. Using the Telegram app, they offered enticingly cheap cryptocurrency investments, assuring their targets of high returns in USDT and tax savings through cash payments. Once a victim fell for their trap, they would collect the money in cash and swiftly disappear.

What was the motive?

The trio’s primary motivation for these crimes was to fund their lavish lifestyle, which included regular outings to high-end clubs and parties. Their criminal activities escalated as their desires grew, pushing them to target more people.

During interrogation, Nishant Chauhan, a 2019 BA graduate, confessed to planning their latest scam with his friends and another accomplice. Their intended victim, a resident of Moradabad, was lured through the Telegram app with promises of cheap USDT investments and tax savings. 

On August 23, the victim was coaxed into meeting them in Sector-48, Noida. Under the guise of dropping him off, they tricked him into their car, stole his money-laden bag, and fled the scene. The police caught the trio while they were dividing the stolen money. However, one accomplice managed to escape, and efforts are ongoing to apprehend him.