Nungambakkam police have arrested a 19‑year‑old college student for duping a food delivery worker of ₹3,000 using a fake UPI payment trick. The case highlights rising digital payment frauds and security gaps in the gig economy.

Key Takeaways

  • 19‑year‑old Kodambakkam student arrested for using a fake UPI payment to cheat a food delivery executive of ₹3,000.
  • Police leveraged CCTV footage to identify the suspect; two other accomplices remain at large.
  • Increasing digital payment scams are prompting heightened police vigilance towards gig‑workers.

Joseph Maria Solomon, 22, a resident of Hanuman Koil Street, West Mambalam, works for a private food‑delivery firm. On the night of July 1, after completing his shift, he was riding home on his motorcycle when three men approached, claiming their two‑wheeler had run out of petrol and asking for a tow.

Incident Details

Solomon towed the bike to an HP petrol bunk on Kodambakkam High Road. The trio said they had no cash and promised to transfer ₹3,000 via Google Pay. After handing over the cash, one of them flashed a mobile screen, insisting the payment had been made, and the three fled the scene.

Discovery of the Scam

When the amount failed to reflect in Solomon’s bank account, he realized he had been duped and lodged a complaint with Nungambakkam Police. Using CCTV footage, the crime wing identified and arrested Thiruchelvam, 19, a second‑year college student from Subedar Garden, Kodambakkam. Investigation revealed he has three prior criminal cases, while two other suspects are still missing.

Broader Context of UPI Fraud

India’s rapid UPI adoption has been accompanied by a surge in fake‑payment schemes. Gig‑economy workers, especially delivery personnel, often face pressure to accept cash or mobile payments from strangers, making them vulnerable to scams. Experts advise real‑time payment verification and refusing to hand over cash without confirming receipt.

Police Response and Future Outlook

The Nungambakkam police emphasized that CCTV and digital transaction audits are now integral to investigations. They have urged delivery companies to train staff on secure payment protocols. This incident underscores the urgent need for heightened awareness around digital transaction safety in the gig sector.