Eight people have been arrested in connection with an alleged fraud involving fake donation collections in the name of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. The arrests were made as a Special Investigation Team (SIT) intensified its probe into a network accused of cheating devotees by posing as authorised fundraisers.
According to investigators, the accused allegedly created forged donation receipts, fake identity cards and misleading digital payment links to convince people that they were collecting money for the Ram Temple. Police believe the group targeted devotees across several states, taking advantage of religious sentiments to collect funds illegally.
The SIT said the suspects operated in an organised manner, using social media platforms, messaging apps and phone calls to reach potential donors. In many cases, people were allegedly persuaded to transfer money through QR codes and bank accounts falsely presented as official donation channels.
During raids, investigators recovered forged documents, electronic devices, bank records and other material believed to have been used in the fraud. Officials are now analysing the digital evidence to identify additional suspects, trace the money trail and determine the total amount collected through the alleged scam.
Police said the investigation is continuing and more arrests could follow. Authorities are also examining whether the network had links with similar frauds reported in other parts of the country.
The case has prompted officials to once again advise devotees to make contributions only through officially authorised temple trusts or verified banking channels. They warned that fraudsters often exploit major religious events and public emotions to deceive people into making payments.
The arrests mark a significant step in the investigation, but officials say the focus now is on uncovering the full extent of the operation and ensuring that those responsible for exploiting devotees’ faith are brought to justice.
Also Read: Oil prices ease after Hormuz evacuation plan halt
