New Delhi, Dec 22: Former Punjab cadre IPS officer and retired Inspector General (IG) Amar Singh Chahal allegedly shot himself after reportedly being duped of Rs 8.10 crore in a major cyber fraud, police sources said on Monday.
Official sources told news agency Kashmir News Corner — KNC, Chahal had fallen prey to a highly sophisticated online scam in which fraudsters, posing as representatives of an investment platform, lured him with promises of high returns through a WhatsApp group. Over a period of more than two months, he allegedly transferred large sums of money, ultimately losing over Rs 8 crore.
Sources said that out of the total amount, nearly Rs 7.5 crore had reportedly been borrowed from friends and relatives, adding to the financial and emotional distress faced by the retired officer.
A suicide note recovered from the spot was reportedly addressed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and the Union Finance Minister. In the note, Chahal sought justice and appealed for a multi-agency probe to track down the cyber criminals, recover the defrauded money and dismantle similar fraudulent networks. He also requested protection and support for his family.
In the note, the former IPS officer reportedly stated that he felt left with no option and was unable to face society due to the massive financial loss. He urged authorities to take strict action against cyber scam syndicates operating under the guise of legitimate financial platforms.
Police have taken cognizance of the incident and initiated further investigation. Cybercrime agencies are also expected to examine the fraud angle highlighted in the suicide note.
