⚠️ Modes of Operation: How Kantika Import Export & Trading Defrauds Buyers

Kantika Import Export and Trading Pvt Ltd, led by Vishav Sharma, operates a sophisticated multi-layered scam that has targeted Indian importers and traders across various sectors. Victims have reported advance payment losses ranging from ₹30 lakh to ₹5 crore.

🧩 Step-by-Step Fraud Mechanism

1. Fake Supplier Setup: They identify a scam supplier (often overseas) who quotes abnormally low rates.
2. Forged Supply Documentation: They obtain documents like packing lists, invoices, and COAs from the scam supplier to appear credible.
3. Buyer Targeting: Indian traders are approached with these documents and offered deals well below market price.
4. Advance Collection: Buyers are asked to pay a 30–50% booking amount upfront.
5. Security Cheques & LC Trap: To build buyer trust, Kantika offers security cheques or even arranges a transferable Letter of Credit via a trusted bank.
6. LC Encashment Scheme: Kantika then looks for a third party (shell firm or another trader) to encash the LC, demanding 30% in advance.
7. Profit Extraction: They keep the margin and send a portion to the fake supplier.
8. No Delivery Ever Happens: The supplier disappears, and Kantika claims they too are victims.
9. Excuses & Delay: They blame the overseas supplier, cite MEA intervention, and continue the charade while preparing for the next scam cycle.

🏢 Use of WeWork Address as a Disguise

Kantika operates from HD-071, We Work DLF Two Horizon Centre, Gurgaon — a shared coworking space. This address is used strategically to appear professional and trustworthy, masking the lack of a real operational setup. Victims often feel reassured by the location's prestige, unaware that it’s simply a rented desk space.

🔐 Buyer Precautions

• Independently verify supplier legitimacy and company history through MCA, GST, and port networks.
• Be cautious of low-price deals with high advance demands.
• Confirm the validity of LCs and security cheques — they’re often part of the scam tactic.
• Consult legal experts before engaging in cross-border trade based on unverified documents.
• Report all suspicious activity to DGFT, Police, and MEA for cross-border fraud tracking.

This operational breakdown is based on verified complaints, FIRs, and testimonies submitted by affected businesses in Rajkot, Delhi, and Haryana.