Dear Anuj,
Your concerns are valid, and I appreciate your detailed account of the situation. Below is a structured legal response addressing your queries, along with recommended steps to protect yourself from further complications.
1. Legal Liability – Are You Responsible for the Fraud Committed by the Buyer?
Based on the information provided, you do not have direct criminal liability since:
- You conducted due diligence by verifying the buyer’s details.
- The transaction was executed via Binance’s escrow system, with proper identity checks.
- There was no intent to defraud, and you had no prior knowledge that the funds were proceeds of a cybercrime.
However, being classified as a Layer 2 recipient means you may be required to cooperate with the investigation to prove your innocence.
2. Can the Police Demand That You Compensate the Victim?
- Legally, you are not obligated to compensate the victim unless it is proven that you were complicit in the fraud, which is not the case here.
- If the police pressure you to refund the amount voluntarily, it should be done only after obtaining a written assurance from the investigating officer that no further legal action will be taken against you.
- If you decide to return the amount to the victim to expedite case closure, ensure it is routed through official channels (such as an escrow account held by the police).
3. Can You Be Arrested?
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Immediate Arrest Risk: Since this is a cybercrime-related financial case, arrest is unlikely unless there is evidence of active participation in the fraud.
- However, since the investigation is ongoing and your bank account is under lien, there is a possibility that the police may summon you for questioning.
- You have already emailed the police with supporting evidence, which is a positive step. It is crucial to continue this communication in a structured legal manner (see Point 5).
4. How to Respond to a Notice Under Sections 91/102 Cr.P.C.?
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Section 91 Cr.P.C. (Documentary Evidence): If you receive a notice under Section 91, it means the police are requesting you to provide documents relevant to the investigation. You should:
- Respond formally in writing, attaching:
- Binance transaction receipts
- KYC details of the buyer
- Your bank statements
- Any prior correspondence with the police
- Mention that you are an NRI and unable to appear in person, requesting alternative means of communication (Legal representation)
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Section 102 Cr.P.C. (Seizure of Property): If your account is only under lien and not fully frozen, it indicates a preliminary attachment rather than full seizure. However, if an FIR is registered, the bank may fully restrict access to your funds.
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Request the police for clarity on whether your funds are being held as "evidence" or if they intend to return them after verification.
- If the lien persists without justification, you can file a representation to the Superintendent of Police (SP) or approach the High Court for relief.
5. How to Respond If You Cannot Appear in Person (As an NRI)?
- Since you are residing abroad, you have the following options:
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Legal Representative in India: Appoint a lawyer who can physically interact with the investigating officer and represent your case.
6. Preventive Measures to Avoid Legal Hassles in the Future
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Keep Detailed Records: Maintain transaction history, KYC proofs, and email logs for every crypto trade.
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Check for Suspicious Transactions: If a buyer’s payment source looks unusual (third-party transfers, multiple accounts), reject the transaction.
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Use Exchange-Compliant Accounts: If trading regularly, use an exchange-friendly account from a bank that has compliance protocols for crypto transactions.
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Consult a Legal Expert for Future Transactions: If you continue P2P trading, it may be wise to get a legal opinion on the structure of transactions to avoid legal risks.
7. Jurisdiction Issue – Case Filed in UP While You Are from Gujarat
Since the complaint is filed in Uttar Pradesh, local police there have jurisdiction. However:
- If you ever need to file a petition for relief, it can be done in Gujarat, where you hold a permanent residence, under Article 226 of the Constitution (High Court Writ Jurisdiction).
- A lawyer can also seek case transfer to a jurisdiction more convenient for you.
Conclusion – Next Steps for Quick Resolution
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Immediate Response to Cyber Police:
- Send a detailed email response enclosing all supporting documents.
- Clearly state that you acted in good faith and had no knowledge of any fraud.
- Request a formal acknowledgment that your response has been received.
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Engage a Lawyer in India:
- Appoint a legal representative in India who can visit the police station on your behalf.
- The lawyer can also file a representation to remove the lien on your account.
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Seek Removal of Lien from the Bank:
- After submitting your response, follow up with the bank’s nodal officer to inquire about the next steps for lifting the lien.
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Be Prepared for a 91 Cr.P.C. Notice:
- If you receive a notice, respond in writing, attaching all requested documents.
- Politely request a virtual meeting if required.
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Escalate If No Response from Police:
- If you receive no update from the police despite multiple attempts, a legal notice can be sent to the Cyber Crime SP seeking a resolution.
- As a last resort, a petition can be filed in the High Court for relief against harassment and wrongful lien.
Final Recommendation
Given the complexities of cybercrime investigations, I strongly recommend engaging an experienced cyber law and financial fraud defense lawyer in India. I can assist in drafting a formal legal response and representing your interests before the authorities.
Would you like me to draft a formal response for submission to the Cyber Crime Police and Axis Bank? Let me know how you’d like to proceed.
For further finalization and strategizing, Contact/WhatsAPP On - Nine Five NIne two Five Zero Zero Zero Six Eight
Best Regards,