The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has arrested a long-wanted fugitive in an old kidnapping case while also filing a chargesheet in a major cyber fraud involving a “digital arrest” scam that allegedly cheated a Delhi-based senior citizen of around ₹23 crore.
The arrested accused, identified as Bhola Singh, was also using multiple fake identities such as Gautam Kumar and Amit Sharma to evade law enforcement. He was apprehended from Surat, Gujarat, where he had been living under forged documents for several years. The kidnapping case dates back to 2014, involving the abduction of two individuals, and was later transferred to the CBI for investigation.
According to officials, the accused had been absconding since 2015 and is wanted in over 11 cases registered by Bihar Police, including charges of murder, attempted murder, illegal possession of arms, and explosives-related offences. Investigators stated that he repeatedly changed his identity and moved across states to avoid arrest.
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₹23 Crore Digital Arrest Scam Chargesheet Filed
In a parallel development, the CBI has filed a chargesheet in a serious cyber fraud case linked to a structured criminal network. In this case, a senior citizen was targeted through a “digital arrest” scam, where fraudsters posed as law enforcement officials and intimidated the victim through video calls, creating fear of imminent legal action.
Under this pressure, the victim was allegedly coerced into transferring nearly ₹23 crore into multiple bank accounts. Investigations revealed that the funds were systematically routed through a layered network of accounts and entities to obscure the money trail.
Shell Entity and Key Accused Exposed
One of the key accused in this cyber fraud case, identified as Sagnik Roy from Siliguri, has already been arrested and remains in judicial custody. The chargesheet also highlights the role of a shell organisation named “Securing World Social and Economic Development Council,” which was allegedly used to channel and launder the proceeds of the fraud.
Officials explained that in such “digital arrest” scams, criminals impersonate police or government agencies, using video calls, forged documents, and psychological pressure to convince victims that they are involved in serious criminal investigations. Victims are then manipulated into transferring large sums of money to avoid alleged arrest or legal consequences.
Evolving Cyber Fraud Networks Under Scrutiny
Investigators further noted that modern cyber fraud networks have evolved beyond traditional scams, now employing advanced psychological manipulation techniques. These networks often operate across borders, exploiting gaps in banking systems and rapidly moving funds through multiple accounts and channels, including international routes.
Authorities have raised concerns over the growing sophistication of such frauds, stating that tracing and recovering stolen funds remains extremely challenging due to complex layering techniques and the use of fake entities.
The CBI’s latest action highlights two major developments—one being the arrest of a long-absconding criminal involved in a kidnapping case, and the other exposing a large-scale cyber fraud network operating through digital intimidation tactics. The ₹23 crore scam once again underscores how rapidly evolving technology is being misused by organised criminal groups to execute highly complex financial crimes.
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.
