Police in East Champaran district of Bihar have uncovered a cyber fraud network that allegedly operated at the direction of handlers based in Pakistan, Nepal and Gulf countries, using social media to trap people through misleading advertisements and then subject them to what the report described as “digital arrest” frauds involving extortion of large sums.
So far, five suspects have been arrested in Motihari, and police said the wider network is now under investigation.
How the network allegedly operated
According to information cited by police, Ankith Kumar of Khatolwa in Kalyanpur was in contact with cyber fraud operatives based in Pakistan, Nepal, Gulf countries and several other countries for a commission of about 10 per cent. The report says the group used social media to circulate deceptive advertisements, lure victims and then carry out cyber fraud through digital arrest tactics.
Police allege that the gang transferred the extorted money to its handlers in Pakistan, Nepal and Gulf countries. In return, the network is said to have received a substantial commission. The police recovered WhatsApp chats and photographs relating to conversations with major cyber fraud operators based in Pakistan, Nepal and Gulf countries.
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Five arrests in Kalyanpur
Chakia SDPO Santosh Kumar Singh said cyber fraud activity had become active in East Champaran. Police had received information that one cyber fraud suspect was moving around near an ATM in the Kalyanpur police station area. Following that input, police arrested Ankith Kumar.
On his identification, four other associates were also arrested. Police said the group used misleading advertisements on social media to deceive people and then extorted large amounts of money after placing them under digital arrest.
Probe widens to foreign links
The police have expanded the scope of the investigation and begun examining the network’s connections and money transfers abroad. The role of operatives linked to Pakistan, Nepal and Gulf countries is now part of the inquiry.
The report describes the case as a major cybercrime matter in East Champaran and says the network is being thoroughly investigated. Police are continuing to examine foreign connections, financial transfers and the wider structure of the alleged fraud operation.
About the author – Ayesha Aayat is a law student and contributor covering cybercrime, online frauds, and digital safety concerns. Her writing aims to raise awareness about evolving cyber threats and legal responses.
