Ahmedabad-Junagadh: Gujarat’s popular Gir Safari, known for its Asiatic lions, recently became the center of a major booking scam. Authorities have uncovered a racket that illegally sold permits worth 12,800 in bulk at triple the official price. The scam has caused confusion and inconvenience among tourists, highlighting the risks of online booking fraud.
Illegal Bulk Bookings via Official Portal
The scam involved exploiting the Gujarat government’s official Gir Safari booking website, girlion.gujarat.gov.in. The accused created an artificial shortage of permits and sold them on the black market at inflated prices. This unethical practice allowed them to make crores of rupees in illegal profits while depriving genuine visitors of safari slots.
Investigations by the Cyber Center of Excellence (CCoE), Gandhinagar revealed that the gang used fake identities and fraudulent Aadhaar card photos to secure large numbers of permits in advance. By manipulating the system, they were able to book thousands of slots illegally, causing severe inconvenience to tourists who tried to book genuine tickets.
Modus Operandi of the Fraudsters
According to the CCoE, the accused followed a systematic approach to maximize profits:
- They provided false identities while registering on the government website.
- Instead of using real Aadhaar cards, they submitted fake photographs.
- They conducted bulk bookings in advance, hoarding permits and creating a shortage.
- These permits were then sold at three times the official price through fake websites and social media platforms.
This scam shows how cyber fraud can directly affect tourism and disrupt trust in official online services.
Arrest of Three Accused from Ahmedabad and Junagadh
Under the guidance of State Home Minister Harsh Sanghvi, CCoE officers carried out technical analysis to track the accused. They successfully arrested three individuals involved in the racket:
- Alpesh Mansukhlal Bhalani, resident of Hebatpur Road, Thaltej, Ahmedabad
- Sultanbhai Usmanbhai Baloch, resident of Sasan Gir, Taluka-Mendarda, Junagadh
- Ejaz Nurmohammedbhai Sheikh, resident of Sasan Gir, Taluka-Mendarda, Junagadh
Authorities confirmed that the gang illegally booked over 12,800 permits, generating significant unlawful income while disrupting tourism plans for genuine visitors.
Advisory for Tourists: Avoid Cyber Fraud
The Cyber Center of Excellence has issued urgent advisories for tourists to avoid falling victim to online scams:
- Always use the official Gujarat government website girlion.gujarat.gov.in for bookings.
- Avoid clicking on links shared via Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, or Telegram claiming to offer safari bookings.
- Tourists suspecting cyber fraud should immediately contact the Cyber Crime Helpline at 1930 or the nearest police station.
Authorities emphasize that online bookings must only be done through verified channels to prevent scams and ensure a safe, hassle-free safari experience.
Also read: President Draupadi Murmu Visits Sasan Gir for Lion Safari and Tribal Engagement
Impact on Tourism and Public Trust
The exposure of this scam has raised concerns among tourists and local authorities about cybersecurity measures in tourism booking platforms. Creating artificial shortages and selling permits illegally not only exploits tourists financially but also damages the reputation of Gujarat’s tourism industry.
Officials have stated that strict measures will be implemented to monitor bookings and prevent similar fraud in the future. The arrests are seen as a step towards safeguarding the interests of genuine visitors and maintaining transparency in Gir Safari ticketing.
Also read: Sasan Gir Safari Starts a Week Early: Lion Roars Await Nature Lovers
Conclusion: Stay Alert and Book Safely
The Gir Safari fake bookings exposed case serves as a reminder for tourists to stay vigilant when booking online. Only use official portals, verify information before making payments, and report suspicious activity immediately. This incident highlights the importance of cybersecurity in tourism and the need for public awareness to prevent exploitation.
By following official guidelines, visitors can enjoy the spectacular experience of Gir Safari without falling prey to scams, ensuring both safety and peace of mind while exploring Gujarat’s wildlife treasures.
