Kamareddy farmer loses Rs 8.84 lakh after online scammers promise dairy buffaloes for cheap

Kamareddy: A farmer from Kamareddy district fell victim to a cyber fraud after being lured by an online advertisement promising dairy buffaloes at a low price with home delivery. Cyber criminals duped the farmer of Rs 8.84 lakh through a fake deal circulated on YouTube.

YouTube reel turns costly

The victim, Chakali Ramesh, a farmer from Sangameshwar village in Domakonda mandal, came across a YouTube reel while browsing online. The video advertised dairy buffaloes at an attractive price, assuring home delivery.

Trusting the offer, Ramesh contacted the mobile number mentioned in the reel. The callers spoke convincingly and finalised the deal, assuring him that the animals would be delivered soon after payment.

Fraudsters send a payment link

To process the delivery, the fraudsters sent Ramesh an online payment link. Believing their claims, the farmer transferred money in multiple instalments, amounting to a total of Rs 8.84 lakh.

However, even after the payments were made, the promised buffaloes were not delivered. When Ramesh tried to contact the sellers again, their mobile phones were switched off, raising suspicion.

Complaint filed, probe underway

Realising that he had been cheated, Ramesh approached the Domakonda Police Station and lodged a formal complaint. Police registered a case and launched an investigation under cyber fraud provisions to trace the accused and recover the money.

Police advisory

Police have issued an advisory urging citizens to remain cautious while dealing with online advertisements.

People have been warned not to trust social media or YouTube posts offering products at unusually low prices, especially those claiming home delivery.

Authorities also advised the public to avoid clicking on suspicious links and to verify sellers thoroughly before making any online payments.