Popular Finance scam: Owners absconding after taking Rs 2,000-cr from investors

coastaldigest.com news network

August 27, 2020

Konni, Aug 27: Investors may lose around Rs 2,000 after the owners of Kerala’s Popular Finance shut down the firm and went underground.

With the increasing number of complaints against the firm and its owners, a special team has been appointed to investigate the matter. However, the owner filed an insolvency petition in the court the other day.

Popular Finance had 274 branches inside and outside. Though the company had been working well, a sudden financial crisis led to its collapse.

The company was owned by Roy (Thomas) Daniel, his wife Prabha and their family residing in Vakayar. Two weeks ago, the family shut the company’s registered office in Vakayar and went absconding. Based on complaints from the investors, Konni police registered a cheating case against Roy and Prabha. It is learned that the company owes money to over 1,500 people including NRIs.

As the registered office was closed, investors started reaching other branches demanding their money back. Following this, the other branches are also being closed down. K G Simon pointed out that the firm does not have the resources to return all the money to the investors. More investigations are being held into other firms owned by the family.

People had invested between Rs 10,000 and Rs 80,000 in the company. Most of them made the investments for constructing houses, for marriage and to earn income after retirement. The investors said that they were paid interests properly until last month.

Those who deposited smaller amounts in the company raised complaints first. Many of those who have invested huge sums in the firm are yet to register complaints. Police have received proof that the company was not functioning properly for the last four years.

Alerts have been sounded in airports to prevent the owners from escaping to foreign countries. Konni CI P. S. Rajesh is in charge of the investigation. Popular Finance was founded in 1965 by T. K Daniel, father of Roy.

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Fusion-2K25: Melkar Women’s College Celebrates 17th Annual Day and Graduation Ceremony

News Network

December 17,2025

Melkar, Dec 17: The 17th Annual Day and Graduation Ceremony of Melkar Women’s PU and Degree College, themed “Fusion-2K25,” was celebrated with dignity and enthusiasm, marking a significant milestone in the institution’s academic journey. The programme reflected the college’s steadfast commitment to academic excellence, character building, and the holistic development of students.

The event was inaugurated by Mr. Asif Mohammed, whose presence greatly enriched the occasion. The celebration was further graced by the chief guests Mr. P. B. Ahmed Mudassir and Mr. Nissar Fakeer Mohammed, along with the distinguished guests of honour Mr. B. A. Nazeer and Mr. Ibrahim Gadiyar. In their inspiring addresses, the guests encouraged the graduating students and appreciated the dedicated efforts of the management, faculty, and students.

The annual report was presented by the Principal, Mr. Abdul Majeed S, highlighting the institution’s academic progress, notable achievements, and extracurricular accomplishments during the academic year.

The presidential address was delivered by the esteemed Chairman of Melkar Women’s PU and Degree College, Dr. Haji S. M. Rasheed, who emphasized the vital role of education in empowering women and shaping responsible citizens. He also stressed the importance of discipline, dedication, and perseverance in achieving success.

Cultural programmes and academic recognitions formed an integral part of the celebration, showcasing the talents and achievements of the students. The graduation ceremony was a proud moment for the outgoing students as they were formally conferred degrees and wished success in their future endeavours.

Ms. Mashmooma Fathima served as the Master of Ceremonies. The welcome address was delivered by Ms. Fathima Nida, and the programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Ms. Ayisha Suhana.

The event successfully achieved its objectives and was highly appreciated by the guests and attendees.

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Mangaluru police issue alert over fake traffic fine payment Apps and links

coastaldigest.com news network

December 20,2025

Mangaluru, Dec 20: City Police Commissioner Sudheer Kumar Reddy has issued a high-alert warning to vehicle owners regarding a surge in cyber fraud targeting those looking to pay traffic violation fines. Fraudsters are reportedly exploiting recent government discount schemes on traffic penalties to deceive citizens.

The Scam: How Fraudsters Strike

Criminals are using SMS, WhatsApp, and social media to circulate suspicious links and APK files (Android application packages). They claim these apps allow users to pay e-challans at a discount.

• Device Hacking: Downloading these unauthorized apps gives hackers full access to the victim's smartphone.

• Financial Theft: Once the phone is compromised, fraudsters intercept OTPs and personal data to drain bank accounts.

• Phishing Sites: Fake websites mimicking official portals are also being used to harvest banking credentials.

Already, two residents within Mangaluru city limits have reported significant financial losses after falling victim to these fraudulent apps.

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