Ujjain, India – Police in Ujjain have launched a comprehensive investigation into an alleged e-rickshaw disabling scam, where vehicles were reportedly halted remotely via a mobile application, leaving drivers stranded and vulnerable. An 18-year-old suspect has been detained as authorities probe the sophisticated fraud.
The scam came to light after numerous complaints from e-rickshaw drivers and the Unorganised E-rickshaw Drivers and Operators Association. Drivers reported their vehicles suddenly stopping, often late at night in isolated areas. Shortly after, individuals posing as technical experts would appear, quickly restart the rickshaws, and demand payments ranging from ₹200 to ₹300 or more.
How the E-Rickshaw Disabling Scam Worked
Investigators believe the accused utilized a mobile application to remotely disrupt e-rickshaws. The vulnerability appears to stem from the Bluetooth-enabled Battery Management System (BMS) used in some e-rickshaws. A specific mobile application, identified as BAT-BMS by Shenzhen Grenergy Technology, could reportedly scan nearby Bluetooth-enabled lithium battery packs and disable moving vehicles by switching off their discharge function.
A critical weakness in this system was the lack of password protection or authentication, especially in lower-cost battery units. Many drivers were unaware of these BMS features or the absence of password settings, as dealers often failed to inform them. The issue has since been addressed by requiring password authentication for the BAT-BMS app.
Police Investigation and Driver Advisory
Acting on instructions from Additional SP Alok Sharma, a joint team from the Crime Branch and local police began their probe. Ritesh Bhanupa, an 18-year-old, has been detained for questioning in connection with the scam. Police are technically examining the claims and reviewing CCTV footage and other evidence to identify the full network involved.
Similar incidents have also been reported in Delhi. Social media influencer Amaan Siddiqui shared an account of a stranded driver who lost a significant portion of his daily earnings due to the issue.
Ujjain Police have issued an advisory to e-rickshaw drivers: do not pay or transfer money to unknown individuals if a vehicle suddenly stops. Instead, drivers are urged to contact only authorized service centers or company technicians. They are also advised to note down details like photos, videos, or registration numbers of any suspicious persons offering paid assistance and report incidents to Dial 100/112, Cyber Helpline 1930, or the nearest police station.