In a bid to curb the alleged illegal activities of Hong Kong-based multi-level marketing company QNet, accused of involvement in a Rs425 crore fraud, Mumbai police has ordered popular coffee shop Cafe Coffee Day (CCD) to shut its doors to representatives of the controversial firm.
What has the EOW probe revealed?
A probe conduced by city's Economic Offences Wing (EOW) in the fraud has revealed that representatives and employees of the beleaguered company and the firms associated with it often frequent the city-based outlets of CCD to lure prospective members.
What does the notice read?
Complying with the orders of EOW, CCD authorities have pasted notices at entrances of outlets across the city, which read, "As per instructions received from Economic Offence Wing-Crime branch, Mumbai and additional police commission of EOW Mumbai, entry is prohibited for representatives, staff and employees of Vihaan Direct Selling (India) Pvt Ltd, QNet Limited (Hong Kong), Transview Enterprises India Pvt Ltd and Vanamala Hotels, Travels & Tourism Services Pvt Ltd."
The notice further states, "NOTE: We are not associated with the above mentioned in any way."
What other measures did city cops take to curb the activities?
Armed with court orders, city cops with the help of central cyber security sleuths had blocked online portals a few weeks ago to put an end to their web activities. "However, it has come to our notice that the representatives have found alternative ways on the internet and are continuing their operations. We are leaving no stone unturned to impede their activities," said an officer.
How was the cafe used to conduct business?
The officer added, "Using free WiFi facilities, the company's agents operate from outlets, besides meeting prospective members to discuss business."
Gurpreet Singh, who had complained about the fraud, has welcomed the police's move saying, "It is a well known fact that QNet's associates sit in CCD outlets scouting for their victims."
The EOW has so far arrested 10 people for allegedly duping investors by offering to sell products like magnetic disks, herbal products and holiday schemes through fraudulent practices.
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