Nagpur: As anticipation builds for the India vs England One Day International (ODI) match at VCA Jamtha, fraudsters are exploiting cricket fans eager to secure entry. With tickets selling out quickly, online scams involving fake tickets and exorbitant resale prices have surged, prompting swift action from the Cyber Police.

Several complaints have surfaced on social media, with users reporting scammers selling photoshopped tickets and counterfeit online vouchers. Many cricket enthusiasts, desperate to attend the match, have fallen victim to these fraudulent schemes.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (Zone 1 and Cyber) Lohit Matani stated, “We have traced IP addresses of suspects circulating dubious posts about match tickets on social media. They have been issued summons and are required to appear for an inquiry.”

Matani urged fans to purchase tickets only from authorized sources and report fraudulent activities. He warned that strict action would be taken under the BNS Act against those involved in ticket scams.

Earlier, Sadar police apprehended two individuals on Monday for allegedly posing as Vidarbha Cricket Association (VCA) officials and illegally selling tickets for the India vs England ODI match at inflated prices.

The accused have been identified as Manohar Hemdas Wanjari (62) of Gandhibagh and Rahul Bhaudas Ramteke (38) from Dattawadi.

Police sources revealed that the duo targeted cricket enthusiasts by impersonating VCA officials and offering tickets at exorbitant rates. Acting on a tip-off, Sadar police conducted a swift operation and caught the suspects red-handed.

A case has been registered against the accused under Sections 31(4), 319, and 62 of the BNS. Authorities have intensified their vigilance to curb ticket black-marketing ahead of the high-profile match.