A shocking case of “digital arrest” fraud has come to light in Amravati, Maharashtra, where a 51-year-old school teacher was deceived by fraudsters claiming to be officers from the Delhi Crime Branch. The accused convinced her that a criminal case had been filed against her for suspicious transactions through a Delhi-based bank account opened in her name.
Threat of arrest leads to panic
According to police, the scam began on November 20 when the teacher, a resident of Kharkadi Pura locality, received a phone call from an unknown number. The caller introduced himself as a Delhi Crime Branch officer and told her that a Bank of Baroda account opened in her name had been used to transfer crores of rupees linked to drug trafficking and anti-national activities. Alarmed by the claim, the teacher was told she would face immediate arrest.
Victim kept under ‘digital arrest’ for 24 hours
The fraudsters then informed the victim that she was being placed under “digital arrest” and ordered her not to contact anyone or leave her house. They instructed her to remain on continuous video call surveillance for 24 hours, simulating an interrogation. During this period, the scammers extracted personal and financial details, including her Aadhaar number and bank account information.
Money extorted under pretext of clearing charges
The accused told her that she could avoid arrest only if she paid ₹10 lakh to “settle” the case. Under pressure and fear, the teacher took a loan of ₹9.40 lakh from the Amravati District Central Cooperative Bank and transferred the amount via RTGS to the account specified by the scammers. Only later did she realise she had been defrauded.
Cyber police register case against unidentified accused
Following her complaint, the Amravati City Cyber Police registered a case against unidentified persons under sections related to cheating and impersonation. Officials said that the case follows a growing pattern of “digital arrest” frauds, in which victims are intimidated into paying large sums through fake law enforcement narratives.
Authorities urge citizens to stay vigilant
Police have urged citizens to remain cautious against calls or video chats from individuals claiming to be from enforcement or investigation agencies. They advised the public not to share personal details, transfer money, or stay isolated under pressure from unknown callers. Victims of cyber fraud are encouraged to report incidents immediately by dialling 1930 or visiting www.cybercrime.gov.in.
