A 22-year-old student at the University of Birmingham had long dreamed of owning property and had been saving toward this goal since childhood. While studying, she believed she had come across an opportunity that could finally make that dream a reality. At a social event, the student met Harkirat Singh, who claimed to be pursuing a master’s degree in finance and presented himself as an experienced asset trader. Seeing this as a chance to learn about trading, she asked Harkirat to teach her.
The Investment Proposal
Harkirat claimed to own an investment company, Singh Finance House, which was running a “special offer” that would allow the student to invest and receive a 5% return every week for six months. He provided contracts to suggest security and reinforce the legitimacy of the arrangement. The student decided to start with a small investment. Harkirat promised that an initial £500 would yield 20% monthly returns, with the original investment returned at the end of the contract. He also guaranteed that any losses would be covered by his company.
On 3 December 2022, eager to take a step closer to her lifelong dream, the student agreed to invest £500. Everything seemed to be going according to plan, and just over a week later, Harkirat reported that the investment had increased by £120. Encouraged by this, Harkirat recommended investing an additional £500, and the student agreed.
Introduction of Work Opportunities
On 4 January 2023, Harkirat presented two work opportunities. The first was a research-based job requiring certifications that would take 2-3 months to complete. The second was a commission-based position offering 5% immediate cash for each new client brought to Harkirat. The student chose the second option but failed to bring in any new clients and was soon removed from the scheme.
Despite this, the investment opportunities continued. Between December 2022 and November 2023, the student continued to invest significant sums. Harkirat maintained trust by providing updates and even sending small amounts of money totalling £420.
Attempts to Withdraw
In September 2023, the student decided to cash out her investments. Harkirat, however, persuaded her to continue investing. On 22 December 2023, he claimed that one of her investment accounts had suffered “future losses due to a recent announcement by Iran and a market crash,” again using this to induce further investment.
In April 2024, the student attempted to withdraw her funds, but Harkirat became uncontactable. He later claimed he was resolving issues with his bank over international transactions while continuing to push the student to convince others to invest.
In May 2024, Harkirat told the student she was in potential trouble due to unpaid tax, claiming the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) had threatened court action. Panicked, she borrowed money from friends and sent Harkirat a further £4,600. Harkirat assured her the tax had been paid and that she would receive all her money on 14 June 2024.
Final Breakdown and Financial Loss
When June arrived, the student had received nothing. Harkirat continued to provide excuses and attempted to coerce her into paying additional sums, including threatening that a further £900 investment was necessary to avoid losing her entire investment. She refused.
Over the course of this scheme, the student was defrauded out of her life savings, became indebted to friends, and suffered significant mental health impacts. Including the money borrowed from a friend, she lost £10,597 to Harkirat.
Achieving Justice
With nowhere else to turn, the student contacted a national fraud specialist firm, CEL Solicitors, who recommended her to James Pritchard of Watson Woodhouse Solicitors to pursue a private prosecution. Harkirat pleaded guilty to two counts of fraud, receiving a 12-month conditional discharge and agreeing to repay the money taken.
Supporting Access to Justice
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