Special Crime Investigation Department (CID) team from Andhra Pradesh has arrested a key accused, Waghmare, in an expansive cyber fraud probe, who was found to have received ₹14.18 crore in his bank account linked to the fraudulent operation.
Authorities disclosed that Waghmare had been traced to Ahilyanagar, Maharashtra, where he was apprehended by local police and Inspector Anand Kokare, just as he was attempting to flee. The arrest was the result of an interstate operation that followed the discovery of substantial illicit transactions involving Waghmare.
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This marks the fourth arrest in the ongoing investigation, indicating a broader cybercrime network operating across multiple states. The initial evidence strongly connects Waghmare to a well-coordinated online scam targeting unsuspecting individuals and businesses.
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The investigation intensified after financial monitoring units flagged unusually high transactions in Waghmare’s account. Upon confirmation of a direct link to a cyber-enabled fraud, Andhra Pradesh police formed a dedicated CID task force. The operation was executed in collaboration with the Maharashtra Police, reflecting increasing cooperation between state agencies to tackle digital financial crimes.
As the probe unfolds, law enforcement believes more arrests could follow, given the sophistication and reach of the scam. Authorities are now analyzing seized digital devices and transaction logs for connections to cryptocurrency-based laundering or foreign handlers.
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In light of the arrest, officials have reiterated warnings to the public about the rising danger of cyber scams, particularly those involving cryptocurrency investments, online job fraud, and fake banking links.
Citizens are urged to report suspicious activity to the Cyber Crime Helpline at 1930 or the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (www.cybercrime.gov.in). Authorities stressed that early reporting can prevent substantial financial losses and assist in disrupting these criminal networks. The case highlights the evolving tactics of cybercriminals and underscores the importance of public awareness, inter-agency collaboration, and financial intelligence in fighting cyber fraud.