Cybercrime police in Tamil Nadu have carried out a major operation against a digital arrest fraud racket and arrested five members of the gang. The accused are alleged to have targeted elderly and single-living individuals by threatening them online and extorting large sums of money. Investigations revealed that the gang impersonated officials of central investigation agencies to intimidate victims.
According to police officials, the gang contacted victims through WhatsApp video calls and fabricated criminal accusations to create fear of so-called “digital arrest”. The fraudsters claimed that the victims were involved in criminal activities and would be arrested unless they paid money. The scammers also posed as officers of government agencies, including the Central Bureau of Investigation, to mislead people.
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The case came to light after a complaint was received on December 16 last year, stating that cybercriminals made threatening calls and forced victims to make online payments. Following the complaint, district police initiated an investigation and formed special investigation teams. During the probe, bank transaction records, mobile call data and other technical evidence were analysed.
Police investigation revealed that the gang had been active for nearly one year and had used around 542 SIM cards during the operation. The fraudsters used multiple mobile numbers to make video calls to victims and frequently changed SIM cards to hide their identity. Investigators also found that the accused travelled periodically to Andhra Pradesh to procure SIM cards for their network operations.
Police arrested five suspects from Andhra Pradesh in connection with the case. The accused have been identified as Singampally Ganesh (36), Pappala Kishore Kumar (36), Cella Sandeep Kumar (27), Sanapathi Prasad (28) and Thalla Ramakrishnan (29). After being produced before the court, they were sent to judicial custody. Authorities said efforts are underway to identify and arrest other members of the network.
Investigators said the gang transferred the fraudulently obtained money through bank accounts and online payment platforms. Preliminary findings suggest that the racket may have targeted victims across multiple states. Police are now conducting a detailed money trail analysis of financial transactions.
Cyber police have also issued a public advisory warning citizens that no government agency conducts inquiries over WhatsApp calls. People receiving such calls or messages have been advised not to share bank details, OTPs or other personal information with unknown callers.
Authorities urged citizens to report cyber fraud incidents by contacting the national cybercrime helpline number 1930 or by filing complaints through the official website. Officials said that in cases of digital arrest fraud, scammers try to create psychological pressure by using intimidation tactics.
The police are currently searching for other suspects and investigating the financial sources of the network. Officials stated that strict legal action will be taken against all culprits after the completion of the investigation. The incident has once again highlighted the growing threat of digital fraud and the need for greater cybersecurity awareness.
About the author — Suvedita Nath is a science student with a growing interest in cybercrime and digital safety. She writes on online activity, cyber threats, and technology-driven risks. Her work focuses on clarity, accuracy, and public awareness.
