Flipkart Delivery Hub Scam: 331 Premium Phones Stolen in Kerala
Four employees of a Flipkart delivery hub in Kerala have been accused of stealing 331 high-end smartphones worth ₹1.61 crore, exposing gaps in e-commerce logistics security. The Ernakulam police filed an FIR after an internal audit uncovered the fraud.
How the Scam Unfolded
The theft was detected when Flipkart’s audit team noticed inconsistencies in inventory records at its Ernakulam facility. Investigations revealed that Apple, Samsung, and OnePlus phones were siphoned off over months by manipulating delivery logs.
Key tactics used by the accused (warehouse and delivery staff) included:
– Falsifying records to mark orders as “delivered” or “returned.”
– Diverting phones to grey markets and offline resellers.
Police Investigation & Charges
The Kerala Cyber Crime Wing is analyzing:
– CCTV footage and digital transaction trails.
– Employee collusion with external parties.
The accused face charges under IPC Sections 408 (criminal breach of trust), 420 (cheating), and 34 (common intention). Convictions could lead to imprisonment and fines.
Flipkart’s Response & Preventive Measures
Flipkart stated:
“We’re cooperating with authorities and reinforcing internal checks, including blockchain tracking for high-value shipments.”
Planned upgrades:
– AI-powered inventory monitoring.
– Stricter employee background checks.
E-Commerce Security Concerns
Experts warn such incidents highlight systemic risks:
– Human loopholes outweigh tech safeguards.
– Need for real-time audits and biometric access controls.
Consumer Advisory
Flipkart customers in Kerala who purchased premium phones recently should:
1. Verify order/delivery status.
2. Report discrepancies to customer support.
Ongoing Developments
Police expect more arrests as the probe expands. The case underscores insider threats in India’s booming e-commerce sector.
—Reported by [Your Name], NextMinuteNews
