Raigarh : The Raigarh Police has uncovered a major cyber fraud operation involving a so-called “digital arrest” scam, arresting five interstate suspects—including a woman—in connection with a fraud totaling approximately ₹3.7 million (about $44,000).
The accused were apprehended during a coordinated operation in Bhilwara and brought to Raigarh on transit remand following a detailed technical and financial investigation.
Fraud Posed as Law Enforcement “Digital Arrest”
According to officials, the cybercriminals impersonated telecom regulators, police officers, and even officials from the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), creating fear of legal action to extort money from victims.
The gang targeted a retired electricity department supervisor, identified as Narendra Thakur, who was defrauded of ₹3,697,117 between January 30 and February 11, 2026.
The victim was initially contacted by a caller posing as an official from the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India, who falsely claimed that his identity had been used in illegal activities. The call was then escalated to fake police and CBI officials, who threatened him with arrest in a money laundering case.
A video call further intensified the deception, with one आरोपी posing as an IPS officer. Under pressure and fear, the victim transferred funds across multiple bank accounts, believing the money would be returned after “verification.”
Swift Investigation and Arrests
Following a complaint filed on February 17, 2026, the cyber police registered a case under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the IT Act.
Using bank transaction trails, digital evidence, and cyber intelligence, investigators traced key financial links to Bhilwara. A special team was formed under the direction of Shashi Mohan Singh, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Raigarh.
The probe led to the arrest of the alleged mastermind, Rahul Vyas—an employee of Bandhan Bank—along with four accomplices: Raviraj Singh, Aarti Rajput, Sanjay Meena, and Gaurav Vyas.
Organized Cybercrime Network
Police revealed that the group operated as a structured cybercrime syndicate, with members assigned specific roles. The accused used bank accounts to receive fraudulent funds and distributed commissions among themselves.
Investigations found that:
- The gang used online tools and tutorials to learn cyber fraud techniques
- Multiple bank accounts were used to route stolen money
- Commission-based profit sharing ranged from 2% to 5% per आरोपी
- One account alone recorded transactions of up to ₹6 million
Authorities also seized 7 mobile phones and 1 laptop, along with incriminating WhatsApp chats and call recordings linked to the crime.
Nationwide Fraud Links
During interrogation, the accused admitted involvement in similar scams across India. Police estimate the gang may be linked to cyber frauds totaling approximately ₹14.07 million (₹1.4 crore) nationwide.
Several bank accounts associated with the suspects have been frozen, and further investigation is underway to identify additional members of the network.
Police Advisory to the Public
Shashi Mohan Singh issued a public advisory warning citizens about the growing threat of “digital arrest” scams.
“Calls claiming to be from police, CBI, or telecom authorities demanding money are fraudulent. No legitimate agency asks for money over phone or video calls. Do not panic, do not share personal or banking details, and immediately report such incidents to the cyber helpline 1930.”
Strengthening Cyber Enforcement
The successful crackdown highlights the increasing role of cyber policing and inter-state coordination in tackling digital financial crimes in India.
The operation was carried out under the supervision of senior officers, with the Raigarh cyber police team playing a key role in tracking, identifying, and apprehending the accused.