Gorakhpur: In a chilling case of cyber fraud executed under the guise of “digital arrest”, fraudsters impersonating officials of central investigative agencies allegedly duped a retired Ayurvedic medical officer of ₹1,57,99,952.80 in Gorakhpur. A case has been registered at the Cyber Crime Police Station, and an investigation is underway.
According to the complaint filed by Dr Manjula Srivastava, the incident began on February 13, 2026, when she received a WhatsApp video call from an individual claiming to be an officer from the National Investigation Agency and the Enforcement Directorate. The caller accused her of being linked to suspicious transactions amounting to ₹50 lakh in a Canara Bank account and alleged involvement in money laundering.
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Psychological pressure and ‘constant surveillance’
The fraudsters reportedly placed the victim under what they described as “digital arrest”, keeping her on continuous video surveillance and warning her not to speak to anyone or step out of her residence. She was told that the funds would be temporarily transferred as part of a “legalisation process” and would be returned upon completion of the investigation.
Taking advantage of her limited technical knowledge and the fear of legal consequences, the accused allegedly subjected her to sustained psychological pressure over several days.
Fixed deposits liquidated, crores transferred via RTGS
Between February 13 and February 21, the accused allegedly coerced the victim into prematurely breaking her fixed deposits and transferring the money to accounts specified by them.
- February 18: ₹30 lakh transferred from Union Bank account to an ICICI Bank account via RTGS.
- February 20: ₹80 lakh transferred to the same ICICI Bank account via RTGS.
- February 21: ₹47,99,952.80 transferred from her SBI account to the ICICI Bank account.
In total, ₹1,57,99,952.80 was siphoned off through multiple transactions.
Fake ED receipts, ‘Pune-based officer’ claim
To maintain credibility, the fraudsters allegedly shared forged Enforcement Directorate receipts bearing identical reference numbers. The caller claimed to be operating from Pune and assured the victim that the entire amount would be refunded by February 24. However, all communication ceased thereafter.
Multiple numbers used; suspicion of insider role
The complainant stated that calls were received from several different mobile numbers during the period. She has expressed suspicion that there may have been possible collusion from within the banking system, though investigators have not confirmed any such involvement at this stage.
FIR lodged, financial trail under scanner
An FIR has been registered against unidentified persons at the Cyber Crime Police Station, Gorakhpur. Investigators are examining transaction trails, call detail records, and beneficiary bank accounts to trace the accused and attempt recovery of the defrauded amount. Officials said efforts are being made to freeze recipient accounts and coordinate with banks concerned.
With “digital arrest” scams witnessing a rise across the country, authorities have urged citizens to remain vigilant. Law enforcement agencies do not conduct arrests, interrogations, or financial verifications through video calls. In case of any such threat or suspicious communication, the public is advised to immediately contact local police or dial the national cybercrime helpline number 1930 for prompt assistance.
