The Bholath police have registered a criminal case in connection with a large-scale online investment fraud in which a local was allegedly duped of Rs 53.78 lakh through a cyber-scam.The case has been filed under Section 420 of the IPC and the Information Technology Act against the unidentified accused.Kapurthala SSP Gaurav Toora said the complaint was lodged by Balwinder Singh, a resident of Bholath, who alleged that an unidentified person lured him into downloading a mobile app on the pretext of a lucrative investment opportunity.According to the complaint, the accused gained the complainant’s trust by assuring substantial profits, following which Balwinder allegedly transferred Rs 53.78 lakh through multiple online transactions over a period of time.When the promised returns failed to materialise and all communication with the accused ceased, the complainant realised he had been cheated.The victim approached the police and submitted details of the financial transactions and digital communications related to the alleged fraud.Police officials said the accused are yet to be identified and no arrests or recoveries have been made. A detailed investigation has been initiated.SSP Toora has urged the public to exercise caution against unsolicited investment offers circulated through mobile apps, social media platforms and other unknown digital sources. He advised citizens to verify the authenticity of any investment scheme before transferring money and to promptly report any suspicious activity to the police.