Delhi Police Busts International Lottery Scam Ring, 6 Arrested Including 2 Nigerians

New Delhi,  In a major breakthrough, Delhi Police’s Crime Branch has dismantled a transnational lottery fraud syndicate operating in Delhi-NCR and across India. The crackdown led to the arrest of six people — four Indian nationals and two Nigerians — allegedly involved in duping Indian citizens through fake online lottery and prize schemes.

According to police officials, the gang was active for several years, targeting victims by luring them with promises of expensive gifts, international lottery wins, and cash rewards. Victims were asked to deposit large sums into bank accounts set up using forged documents. The money was then collected and distributed among the fraudsters.

How the Scam Worked: Nigerian Masterminds, Indian Recruits

The key figures arrested include Shahid Raza (45) and Shahrukh Khan (23), who handled cash withdrawals and UPI-based fund transfers; Vikas (25) and Rakesh alias Lalu (22), who forged documents and opened fake bank accounts; and two Nigerian nationals, Shedrack Onainor (29) and Sunday John alias Liberty (40), believed to be the ringleaders coordinating the entire operation.

On July 7, based on credible intelligence, police launched a surveillance operation. Shahid Raza was apprehended in Punjabi Bagh with ₹3.63 lakh in cash, 9 ATM cards, and a mobile phone containing evidence of fraud. His interrogation led to further arrests, including Shedrack, who had been illegally residing in India since 2018, and Sunday, who overstayed his business visa.

Digital Footprint and Fake Identity Ecosystem

The syndicate operated a fully digital infrastructure for financial transactions. Fake Aadhaar cards, PAN cards, cheque books, and SIM cards were used to set up more than 20 bank accounts under fake names, primarily in the name of Vikas. These accounts were used to receive defrauded money via UPI and ATM withdrawals, which were then handed over to the Nigerians at pre-decided locations across Delhi.

Shahid and Shahrukh managed the cash logistics while Vikas and Rakesh created the fake identities and accounts. The syndicate had a clear commission structure, with 15% of the total money retained as cuts, further divided among team members.

Seized Items and Ongoing Investigation

Police recovered:

• ₹3.63 lakh in cash

• 10 mobile phones

• Forged Aadhaar and PAN cards

• Multiple bank passbooks and cheque books

The accused have been sent to judicial custody, and the police are continuing their investigation to uncover international connections and additional Indian recruits.