Ahmedabad Cyber Crime Branch Busts RE-NEET Fraud Gang, Arrests Two Telegram Scammers

The Ahmedabad Cyber Crime Branch has arrested two members of an interstate cyber fraud network accused of cheating students and parents by falsely claiming to provide RE-NEET examination question papers through Telegram channels. The operation exposed a sophisticated scam that targeted aspirants preparing for one of India's most competitive medical entrance examinations.

According to the Cyber Crime Branch, the accused used multiple Telegram channels and social media platforms to spread misleading advertisements promising access to confidential examination materials and special assistance related to the RE-NEET examination.

How the Fraud Worked

Investigators found that the accused created several Telegram channels and IDs claiming they possessed the RE-NEET question paper and could provide it to candidates before the examination. Students and parents were lured through attractive advertisements, false guarantees, and misleading promises regarding examination success.

Once trust was established, victims were asked to transfer money through bank accounts, QR codes, and online payment platforms in exchange for the purported examination materials. The investigation later revealed that no such examination papers existed.

Two Accused Arrested

Following technical analysis and digital investigation, police identified and arrested two accused from Rajasthan:

• Sumer Singh Meena of Jaipu

• Akash Meena of Kota

Investigators traced their involvement through Telegram channels, mobile numbers, IP addresses, banking records, and other digital evidence.

A case was registered under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and Section 66(D) of the Information Technology Act.

Multiple Telegram Channels Used

Police revealed that the accused operated approximately eight Telegram channels connected to the scam. These included channels carrying names associated with NEET preparation and investment-related schemes.

The investigation found that the accused not only targeted examination aspirants but were also allegedly involved in other online fraud operations through social media and Telegram groups.

No NEET Paper Recovered

One of the most important findings during the investigation was that no NEET examination paper or confidential examination material was recovered from the accused. Police stated that the claims made by the fraudsters were completely false and intended solely to extract money from students and parents.

Authorities emphasized that the fraud was based entirely on misinformation and deception rather than any actual access to examination content.

Investigation Reveals Wider Fraud Network

The probe uncovered a broader cybercrime operation extending beyond examination scams.

Investigators found:

• Links to 12 complaints from different states
• Transactions totaling approximately Rs 1.5 crore
• Use of multiple bank accounts for routing funds
• Contact with nearly 1,000 mobile numbers and Telegram accounts within one month
• Creation of around 44 websites allegedly linked to gaming, betting, gambling, and cyber fraud activities

Police suspect the accused used gaming platforms and layered banking transactions to conceal the movement of fraudulently obtained money.

Students and Parents Urged to Stay Alert

The Cyber Crime Branch has issued a public advisory urging students and parents not to trust social media posts, Telegram channels, or online advertisements claiming to provide examination question papers, guaranteed admissions, or result manipulation services.

Officials advised candidates to rely only on official examination authorities for authentic information and avoid making any financial transactions based on such claims.

Growing Concern Over Exam-Related Cyber Frauds

The case highlights the increasing use of social media platforms by cybercriminals to exploit examination-related anxiety among students.

Competitive examinations such as NEET attract millions of candidates each year, making them attractive targets for fraudsters seeking quick financial gains. Experts warn that promises of leaked papers, guaranteed ranks, or special access should always be treated with suspicion.

Authorities Continue Investigation

Ahmedabad Cyber Crime Branch officials have confirmed that further investigation is underway to identify additional accomplices, trace financial transactions, and uncover the full extent of the fraud network.

Police are also examining digital evidence, electronic devices, banking records, and online communication channels linked to the accused.

Strong Message Against Examination Scams

The arrests serve as a reminder that examination-related frauds continue to evolve in the digital age. Authorities have reiterated that genuine examination papers cannot be legally obtained before the exam and that any such claims are almost always fraudulent.

Students preparing for NEET and other competitive examinations are encouraged to stay vigilant, verify information through official sources, and immediately report suspicious activity to cybercrime authorities.