Gandhinagar: Cyber fraudsters in Gujarat’s Gandhinagar allegedly kept a retired school teacher under “digital arrest” for nearly a month and cheated him of around ₹99 lakh by posing as central investigation officials.
Police said the 65-year-old retired teacher was subjected to continuous psychological pressure through video calls and threatening messages for 28 days. The accused claimed that a money laundering case had been registered against the victim and that he could face imminent arrest.
Fake Judiciary Documents Used to Create Fear
Investigators found that the fraudsters created fake documents in the name of the Supreme Court of India and showed them to the victim to instill fear. The counterfeit papers included fabricated legal notices and investigation orders, making the victim believe the case was genuinely linked to the judiciary.
The cybercriminals allegedly kept the victim under constant surveillance through video calls and instructed him not to leave home or contact anyone. The fraudsters also claimed that failure to follow their instructions could lead to asset seizure and imprisonment.
Police stated that the accused posed as officials of a central investigation agency and used procedural references to demand money transfers. Due to fear and mental stress, the victim transferred money in multiple instalments.
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The cybercriminals routed the funds through several different bank accounts to make the transactions harder to trace. Investigators suspect the involvement of an interstate cyber fraud network in the case. Authorities warned that no legitimate investigation agency demands money or threatens arrest over phone or video calls. Officials advised people to verify any such claims if someone impersonates a government authority and asks for money.
Police Warn Public Against ‘Digital Arrest’ Tactics
Cybersecurity experts said that “digital arrest” scams have increased in recent years, where criminals trap victims by creating fake legal threats and exerting psychological control.
The investigation team is now tracking the bank accounts and mobile numbers used in the fraud. Police said further arrests are likely as the probe progresses.
Citizens have been urged to remain cautious of unknown calls, suspicious legal notices and online intimidation tactics. Authorities advised immediately reporting any doubtful messages to the police or relevant agencies to prevent falling victim to such cyber fraud networks.
