Ahmedabad. A Vadaj-based accountant in Ahmedabad was allegedly subjected to a “digital arrest” by cybercriminals who extorted ₹50 lakh from him through multiple online transfers. The fraudsters allegedly posed as senior law enforcement officials, kept the victim on a continuous video call and claimed that his bank account had been linked to a major money-laundering network and a national security investigation. He was allegedly threatened with arrest and serious legal consequences before being forced to transfer the money in several transactions.
The victim reportedly received a sudden phone call from individuals claiming to be senior police and law enforcement officials. They allegedly told him that a bank account linked to his personal documents had been used for illegal financial transactions and money laundering. The fraudsters further linked the alleged activity to national security concerns and created pressure by claiming that immediate legal action would follow.
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To make their claims appear genuine, the accused allegedly appeared on the video call wearing police-style uniforms and displayed forged legal documents, identification cards and official seals. The victim was then allegedly instructed to remain continuously connected to the video call. He was also reportedly warned not to disconnect the call or contact family members or his bank.
The fraudsters allegedly told the accountant that his bank accounts and assets were under investigation and that he would remain under their digital surveillance until the purported inquiry was completed. Threatening him with arrest and imprisonment, they allegedly instructed him to liquidate his savings and transfer money to different bank accounts.
According to the complaint, the victim made multiple online transfers totaling ₹50 lakh to bank accounts designated by the fraudsters, allegedly on the pretext of verifying his assets and financial transactions. He later realized that he had been deceived and approached the police with a complaint.
Following the complaint, the Ahmedabad Cyber Crime Police launched a technical investigation. Investigators are examining the digital communication channels used during the video calls, IP addresses and the bank accounts into which the money was transferred. Police are also attempting to identify other members of the alleged syndicate and trace the subsequent movement of the money.
The case highlights the growing use of “digital arrest” tactics in cybercrime. In such scams, fraudsters impersonate police officers, investigators, judges or other government officials and threaten victims with arrest or prosecution over alleged criminal activity. They then keep victims on video calls, isolate them from family members and pressure them into transferring money in the name of verification, investigation or clearing their accounts.
Police have urged people to remain alert to such tactics. Government agencies and police authorities do not conduct legal interrogations through video calls or demand that people transfer money to “verification” accounts. Anyone receiving a call involving threats of arrest, money laundering allegations or claims involving national security should independently verify the caller’s identity and immediately contact the police or cybercrime authorities instead of transferring money under pressure.
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.
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