Delhi Police have arrested two 22-year-old men for their alleged involvement in an online fraud operation that used a fake website to sell health supplements and medicines. The scheme reportedly targeted Punjabi-speaking customers in Punjab, collecting payments for products that were never delivered.
The accused have been identified as Hiten Kumar and Ayush Arya. According to police, both allegedly played a role in handling money collected from victims through bank accounts, receiving a commission for facilitating the transactions.
Amritsar Resident Loses More Than ₹83,000
The case came to light after a resident of Amritsar reported losing approximately ₹83,257 between September 27 and September 30.
According to the complaint, the victim made payments through a website named openlifevedixa.com after attempting to purchase health supplements and medicines. However, the ordered products were not delivered.
Following the complaint, an FIR was registered at the Cyber Police Station in Delhi's East District under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Investigators began examining the financial transactions and digital records linked to the suspected operation.
Bank Accounts Allegedly Used to Route Fraud Money
During the investigation, police analysed bank account details, KYC documents and transaction records. Their examination reportedly traced ₹2,66,437 across two bank accounts allegedly connected to the fraud. The money was subsequently withdrawn through ATMs.
Police allege that Ayush Arya provided his own bank account details, along with those of a friend, to his cousin Hiten Kumar in exchange for a 10 per cent commission.
During questioning, Arya reportedly told investigators that the withdrawn money was handed over to Kumar after the commission was deducted. These allegations are part of the ongoing investigation.
Hiten Kumar Arrested on October 21
Police arrested Hiten Kumar on October 21. During the investigation, he reportedly disclosed his connection with another individual who was allegedly operating the website used to collect payments.
Ayush Arya was also arrested in connection with the case. Police are now attempting to identify the alleged website operator and determine whether other individuals were involved in the operation.
Investigators have recovered a mobile phone belonging to Arya. According to police, the device contained the website link and WhatsApp conversations between the accused. The digital material is being examined to establish possible connections with other individuals and transactions.
Investigation Focuses on Wider Financial Network
Police suspect that the operation involved opening or arranging bank accounts to receive payments from customers, withdrawing the money through ATMs and transferring it to other members of the network after deducting commissions.
The investigation is continuing to establish the complete financial trail, identify additional victims and determine the total amount allegedly collected through the fake website.
The case also highlights the risks associated with purchasing medicines and health supplements from unfamiliar online platforms. Consumers should verify a seller's identity, business details and product information before making payments.
Businesses handling online transactions can strengthen their financial monitoring and review procedures through financial investigation and forensic support, particularly when suspicious payment patterns or unexplained fund movements are identified.