Dhubri police have uncovered a large-scale fraud that deceived thousands of underprivileged women under the guise of the “Support India Development Program” scheme. The fraudulent operation, active since January in the Halghora area near Dhubri town, functioned as a chain business model designed to exploit victims.
Key Highlights:
• Prime Accused Arrested: Akram Hussain Laskar (31), from South 24 Parganas, West Bengal, was arrested for orchestrating the scam. He posed as the branch manager of the scheme’s local office.
• Modus Operandi: Victims were promised household items in exchange for Rs 2,000 – Rs 3,000, requiring them to fill out a membership form.
• Chain Business Model: New members were recruited with agents earning Rs 100 per membership. Participants were given pearl-like objects to make necklaces, with a promise of Rs 400 for 40 completed necklaces weekly.
• Massive Outreach: Over 3,000 women fell prey to the scheme, hoping for financial stability.
• Police Raid Findings: Laskar failed to produce valid documents, and all transactions were conducted in cash. Authorities seized Rs 2 lakh during the raid.
• Key Accused Absconding: Rashidul Rahman of Dhubri’s Ward No-14, another key figure, remains at large. Victims identified him as the primary recruiter.
As complaints surged, police launched an investigation, exposing the scam. Authorities urge people to remain vigilant against similar fraudulent schemes and report suspicious activities. The investigation is ongoing to identify the full network behind the operation.