Gurugram: In a major breakthrough against rising cyber fraud, a large international racket involved in “digital arrest” scams has been busted in Gurugram. Five accused have been arrested, with investigations revealing links to handlers based in the Philippines and Cambodia. Preliminary findings indicate that the syndicate was systematically bypassing India’s telecom systems to make fraudulent calls and extort money from victims.
The case came to light after five separate complaints triggered coordinated raids in Gurugram’s U-Block and Chakarpur areas. Suspicion was initially raised by local landlords who noticed unusual activity in rented accommodations—premises that appeared to function more like technical setups than residential spaces. Their alert played a crucial role in uncovering the operation.
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Rented houses converted into fake call centres
During the raids, officials discovered setups resembling mini telecom hubs. A total of 13 SIM boxes, 504 active SIM cards, seven Wi-Fi cameras equipped with human detection features, multiple routers, inverters, batteries, and networking devices were seized.
According to investigators, these SIM boxes were used to mask international calls as local ones, making it appear to victims that the calls originated within India. This technology significantly increased the credibility of “digital arrest” scams.
Operations run from abroad, executed locally
Interrogation revealed that accused Rahul Kumar was in direct contact with handlers based in the Philippines. He received instructions via video calls on installing SIM boxes and managing call routing systems. These devices were deployed across multiple locations in Gurugram, particularly in DLF Phase-3.
Meanwhile, Bhavika Ramesh Bhagchandani was found to be linked with operatives in Cambodia. She allegedly played a key role in converting the fraud proceeds into cryptocurrency—primarily USDT—and transferring the funds overseas. Yash Amrit Singh Dugar acted as an intermediary in facilitating these financial transactions.
Investigators also uncovered a supply chain used by the syndicate to smuggle illegal equipment—from the Philippines to Nepal, then through Bihar before being distributed across Indian cities. This network allowed the gang to expand its operations efficiently.
Inside the ‘digital arrest’ scam model
The accused admitted to running “digital arrest” scams, where victims were contacted by individuals posing as police or investigative officers. They were falsely informed that they were under legal scrutiny in serious cases and were pressured to transfer money to avoid arrest.
Victims were often kept under constant surveillance during calls, preventing them from contacting others. Under fear and psychological pressure, many ended up transferring their entire life savings.
Links to ‘cyber slavery’ emerge
A disturbing angle of the investigation points to possible links with so-called “cyber slavery.” Officials indicated that some individuals may have been trafficked to countries like Cambodia and forced to participate in online fraud operations under coercion.
The recovered Wi-Fi cameras were reportedly used not only for security but also to monitor surroundings and evade detection by authorities.
Expert warning: Cybercrime now global and highly organised
Renowned cybercrime expert and former IPS officer Prof. Triveni Singh warned that cybercrime has evolved into a highly organised and international operation. He noted that such syndicates use a dangerous mix of technology and social engineering, making it easier to trap unsuspecting individuals.
According to him, scams like “digital arrest” rely heavily on psychological manipulation, where fear and urgency override rational decision-making.
Investigation ongoing, more arrests likely
Authorities are continuing efforts to identify other members of the network, trace financial transactions, and establish links both within India and abroad. Officials have indicated that more arrests and major revelations are expected as the probe progresses.
This case underscores the growing global nature of cybercrime. It serves as a stark reminder that vigilance is the first line of defence, as even a small lapse can result in significant financial loss.
