Listen To This Post
Probe Launched into Rs 8-Crore Scam
Patiala: Punjab police have registered a case of forgery and cybercrime against unidentified online fraudsters following serious allegations made by former Punjab-cadre IPS officer Amar Singh Chahal, who allegedly shot himself on Monday after being defrauded of over Rs 8 crore.
Chahal, a former Inspector General of Police, continues to be in a critical condition, with doctors stating that the next 48 to 72 hours are crucial. He is undergoing treatment at a private hospital after emergency surgery.
Confirming the registration of the case, Patiala SSP Varun Sharma said an FIR has been lodged under relevant provisions of the IPC relating to forgery and cheating, along with sections of the IT Act, based on the contents of Chahal’s alleged suicide note.
“We have registered an FIR and initiated a detailed investigation to ascertain the role of everyone involved. We will ensure that the cyber fraudsters are identified, tracked and brought to justice,” Sharma said.
Allegations of Sophisticated Online Scam
In his alleged handwritten suicide note, Chahal claimed he had fallen victim to a highly sophisticated online investment scam run by individuals posing as professional wealth and investment managers. He wrote that over the past decade, he had invested large sums of money, but instead of returns, he was repeatedly asked to invest more.
“I have been scammed out of crores of rupees by very sophisticated investment and wealth managers. Most of the money I borrowed was from friends and relatives whom I am unable to face,” the note read, adding that he was left with “no option” due to mounting financial distress.
Chahal alleged that the main accused used the photograph of the CEO of a reputed company as a WhatsApp display picture to gain credibility and that all transactions were conducted online through bank transfers. He named the platform, claiming it operated through multiple mobile numbers.
According to the note, Chahal had borrowed over Rs 7 crore from friends and relatives and expressed deep shame over his inability to repay them. He appealed to them to give his family time to recover from the shock before seeking repayment.
Appeal for Central Probe
Before allegedly attempting suicide, the retired officer, who superannuated in 2019, reportedly wrote to the Prime Minister, Union Home Minister, Union Finance Minister and the Punjab DGP, demanding a CBI inquiry or the constitution of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the scam. “I hope the criminals will not go unpunished and my family will get justice,” he wrote.
Police Investigation Underway
Senior police officials said cybercrime specialists are examining bank transactions, digital communication trails, and online platforms linked to the alleged fraud. Efforts are underway to identify and locate those operating the suspected scam network.
Chahal, known among peers as a helpful and approachable officer, is also one of the accused in the 2015 Faridkot firing case, in which a Punjab Police SIT filed a chargesheet in February 2023. Police said further details will emerge as the investigation progresses and digital evidence is analysed.
