Udupi Couple Arrested in ₹23 Lakh Self‑Help Group Fund Fraud

Two residents of Udupi were arrested by the local police last week after authorities uncovered a ₹23 lakh fraud involving a self‑help group (SHG) in the district.

The couple, previously members of a community‑based SHG that lends small loans to villagers, allegedly siphoned funds from the group’s collective savings for personal use. Police discovered irregularities when members reported missing funds, and a forensic audit traced the money to the couple’s bank accounts.

The arrest has shaken the SHG community, leaving several loan‑recipients in financial distress. Law enforcement officials are warning other SHGs to strengthen internal controls and conduct regular audits to prevent similar frauds. Source: Google News – Udupi.