A cybercrime investigation has been launched after a Merchant Navy sailor alleged that he was defrauded of ₹1.10 crore through a fake agricultural land investment scheme in the Russian Federation. The accused allegedly promised farmland ownership, share certificates, and high financial returns to convince the victim to invest.
According to the complaint, the 46-year-old sailor from Nallagandla was introduced to Narendra Kamal, who claimed to be the director of United Farming JSC-Russia and Lentils Plus-India. He allegedly stated that the companies were engaged in acquiring and developing agricultural land in Russia. Through WhatsApp and other digital platforms, he assured investors of ownership rights, documentary proof, share certificates, and regular returns from farming activities.
Believing these claims, the complainant transferred ₹1.10 crore for the proposed investment. The accused reportedly confirmed receiving the money and claimed the investment process had begun. He allegedly promised shares equivalent to nearly 40 hectares of farmland, projected returns of ₹27.5 lakh in the first quarter of 2026, and claimed the investment could eventually generate profits of ₹100 crore.
The complaint states that despite repeated follow-ups over several months, the complainant did not receive any ownership documents, land registration records, investment agreements, or government approvals. Instead, the accused allegedly continued to delay the process by citing reasons such as travel to Russia, documentation issues, business commitments, and health concerns, while assuring that all formalities would be completed. The complainant alleged that no ownership rights were provided despite paying ₹1.10 crore.
A senior police official said an advocate filed the complaint on behalf of the sailor. Investigators are now trying to contact the complainant directly to record his statement and verify the allegations before moving forward with the investigation.
Based on the complaint, Cybercrime Police have registered a case under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Information Technology Act. The investigation is currently underway.
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