A retired senior IPS officer from the Punjab cadre was found with a gunshot injury on Monday in what police sources describe as an alleged case of self-harm. The incident has brought attention to a suspected large-scale cyber fraud in which the officer reportedly lost ₹8.10 crore.
The officer, identified as Amar Singh Chahal, a former Inspector General of Police, was allegedly targeted by cyber fraudsters who posed as representatives of an online investment platform. According to official sources, the scam was executed through a WhatsApp-based group that promised high financial returns.
Preliminary findings indicate that over a period of more than two months, the retired officer transferred substantial sums of money to accounts linked to the alleged fraud. Investigators believe that nearly ₹7.5 crore of the total amount may have been borrowed from acquaintances, intensifying the financial strain.
A note recovered from the location has reportedly been addressed to the Prime Minister, the Union Home Minister, and the Union Finance Minister. In the note, the former officer is said to have appealed for a comprehensive investigation involving multiple agencies to identify those responsible, recover the funds, and dismantle organised cyber fraud networks. He also sought protection and support for his family.
Police officials confirmed that they have taken cognisance of the incident and initiated a detailed investigation. Cybercrime units are expected to examine the financial trail and digital communications linked to the alleged fraud.
Authorities have stated that all aspects of the case—including the circumstances leading to the injury and the cybercrime allegations—are being examined. Further details are awaited as the investigation progresses.
