For Kiran Rathore, Inspector General of the Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC), Thursday night began with a routine ring from an unknown number. The caller introduced himself as a police inspector and asked if Rathore was “Bhopaliya.” When Rathore denied it, the caller shifted gears, identifying himself as Inspector Ranjit Kumar from Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir.
Moments later, the tone hardened: Rathore’s official number, the caller alleged, had been used to communicate with terrorists. The senior officer was told he would now face a “digital arrest” and be escorted into custody.
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“I immediately realized it was a fraud attempt,” Rathore wrote in his complaint. “But the caller kept pressing, trying to create panic.” The call was cut short, and a formal complaint was lodged at Mahanagar police station.
Police Treat Case as Warning
Investigators are now tracing the number used in the call. “The fact that cyber fraudsters are targeting not only ordinary citizens but also police officials shows how emboldened they have become,” said Inspector Akhilesh Mishra, who is leading the inquiry.
The Rise of “Digital Arrest” Scams
Cyber experts warn that such scams are spreading quickly across India. Fraudsters impersonate officials from the police, CBI, or enforcement agencies, accusing targets of terrorism or money laundering, then extorting money under the pretense of avoiding arrest.
“This is psychological warfare,” said Professor Triveni Singh, a former IPS officer and cybercrime specialist. “The aim is to trigger fear and compliance. Whether it is a common citizen or a senior official, everyone is vulnerable.”
The Broader Lesson
Authorities are urging citizens to treat any such calls with suspicion and to avoid sharing personal or financial information. Victims are advised to immediately dial the national cyber helpline 1930 or approach local police.
Even senior officers can be targeted, officials warn — underscoring the urgency of public vigilance.