Massive Crackdown on Fraudsters in Assam: Over 330 Arrested
Statewide Operation Against Fraud Networks
File image of Assam CM with DGP Harmeet Singh during a two-day SSP conference in Dergaon (Photo: @himantabiswa/X)
Guwahati, Sep 5: In a significant operation, Assam police apprehended approximately 330 individuals suspected of fraud, impersonation, and middleman activities within a span of nine hours on Saturday. This extensive crackdown was initiated as part of a statewide effort to dismantle networks involved in extortion and deception.
The operation commenced at 3 AM, following directives from Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma aimed at addressing the rising incidents of fraud. According to Assam's Director General of Police (DGP) Harmeet Singh, the police utilized digital analysis to trace connections, leading to the identification and arrest of nearly 330 suspects, with Cachar district reporting the highest number of arrests.
Singh elaborated on the tactics employed by these fraudsters, noting that some targeted individuals visiting police stations, offering assistance with administrative or legal matters. Others impersonated officials such as DSPs and lawyers over phone calls, coercing victims into paying money with false promises of resolving their cases.
“They would issue threats of arrest locally, demanding bribes to avoid legal action, leveraging fear to negotiate settlements,” Singh explained.
The DGP emphasized that investigations are ongoing, and individual verification is crucial, as the person behind a WhatsApp account may not be the registered user. Many suspects were found to be operating from outside Assam, with SIM cards traced back to cities like Hyderabad and Bengaluru.
“We are committed to bringing back those identified outside the state,” Singh stated, adding that the operation is being executed across Assam, excluding areas like Sadiya and Majuli where no such activities have been reported.
In Guwahati, two arrests were made by noon, although comprehensive district-wise statistics were still being compiled. Singh noted that the specific nature of the offenses would be clarified following investigations and the filing of FIRs, with many suspects believed to be part of organized groups.
“Our goal is to create a safer environment for citizens, which is why this operation is crucial and ongoing,” the DGP remarked.
As the day progressed, more district-specific details emerged. In Golaghat, two individuals, Latu Baruah and Nayan Jyoti Saikia, were arrested based on police intelligence for their involvement in middleman activities related to the Deputy Commissioner's office.
In Biswanath, police detained ten suspected fraudsters during operations conducted by various police stations, with several detainees reportedly serving as Village Defence Party secretaries.
“I have yet to receive information regarding VDP members, but if any are found involved, appropriate legal action will be taken,” Singh stated when questioned about their participation.
In Chirang, four suspects were detained, including Nabi Khan, Abdul Hai Nagarik, and Mozamul Haque, with Rafiqul Islam apprehended by Kajalgaon Police Station. The police confirmed that the operation is still active, with additional arrests anticipated.