Celebrity hairstylist Jawed Habib, his wife, and son Anas Habib are under investigation by Sambhal police over allegations of cheating more than 100 investors through a fraudulent cryptocurrency investment scheme. The case involves a company called Follicle Global Company (FLC), which reportedly promised high returns on Bitcoin and Binance coin investments.
The alleged scam
According to Superintendent of Police KK Bishnoi, around 150 participants attended a 2023 event in Sarayateen, Sambhal, held at Royal Palace Venkat Hall under FLC’s name. Investors were allegedly promised 50–75 per cent returns within a year, with individual investments ranging between Rs 5–7 lakh. The estimated total fraud is believed to be Rs 5–7 crore. When investors did not receive the promised returns, complaints were lodged with the Raysatti Police Station, leading to the first FIR. Subsequent investigations prompted 19 additional cases, bringing the total to 20 cases against the Habib family and associates, including a former FLC operations head, Saifullah.
Cases have been registered under Sections 420 (cheating) and 506 (criminal intimidation) of the Indian Penal Code. Police investigations also implicate Habib’s wife, who is reportedly the founder of FLC.
Police measures and asset tracing
Authorities have issued lookout notices to prevent the family from leaving the country. Police teams are currently tracing the Habib family’s assets in Delhi and Mumbai. Under Section 107 of the CrPC, further actions, including potential property seizure under the Gangster Act, are being considered if chargesheets are filed.
Habib and his family members have been summoned to Sambhal for questioning. Police teams are expected to visit their properties to gather more details on assets linked to the alleged scam.
Jawed Habib’s response
Habib’s advocate, Pawan Kumar, denied any wrongdoing by the celebrity stylist. Speaking to the media, Kumar said, “There have been no FIRs registered in the name of Jawed Habib. He regularly conducts hair and makeup seminars across India. One such seminar was organised by FLC in Sambhal, where he was invited to speak. His role was limited to promoting hair and beauty services during the event, and he had no financial or business ties with the company.”
Kumar added that a public notice issued on January 22, 2023, clarified that Jawed Habib had no association with FLC before the event. “When it came to light that investors were allegedly defrauded in the company’s name, we issued this notice to distance him from any financial activity,” he said.
Family reaction and next steps
Reacting to the developments, Imran Habib, Jawed Habib’s younger brother, told ANI, “Let the law take its own course.” So far, Jawed Habib and his family have not issued an official statement.
Authorities are focusing on vigilance and legal action against individuals promoting high-return schemes without transparency. Investigations are ongoing as police continue to trace assets and question the accused.
