Couple Arrested for Defrauding Over Rs 1.5 Million Through Fake Social Media Identity

Kathmandu. A couple has been arrested on charges of defrauding millions of rupees through social media-based deception, according to the Cyber Bureau of Nepal Police.

The arrested individuals have been identified as 39-year-old Sanjiv Nepali, originally from Syangja and currently residing in Kathmandu, and his wife, Sarita Parajuli. They were taken into custody on Tuesday from the Machhapokhari area of Kathmandu.

According to the bureau, Sanjiv Nepali created a fake TikTok account under the name “Prince Tamang 431” to contact women while posing as a person living in the United States who could not speak Nepali fluently. He allegedly avoided showing his face during conversations to build trust and credibility.

Police said he later convinced a woman to continue communication through WhatsApp, providing a number he claimed belonged to his “sister,” identified as “Sargam Tamang.” However, investigators found that the number was being operated by his wife, Sarita Parajuli, who allegedly impersonated his sister and assisted in the fraud by making various false promises.

Deputy Superintendent of Police and Cyber Bureau spokesperson Dilip Kumar Giri said the victim was repeatedly defrauded of Rs 1,510,500 under the pretext of processing requirements for travel to the United States. “After receiving the money, the suspects cut off contact, following which the victim filed a complaint,” Giri said.

Based on the complaint, the Cyber Bureau launched a technical investigation and arrested the couple. They are currently being held on a five-day remand by the Kathmandu District Court on charges of electronic fraud.

The bureau has urged the public to remain cautious of online scams and avoid responding to financial requests from unknown individuals. It also advised victims to report such incidents to the nearest police station or contact the Cyber Bureau via [email protected].

पछिल्लो अध्यावधिक: असार ४, २०८३ १३:३८