LUCKNOW— The authorities have arrested Pradeep Kumar Singh, the director of Shri Narayani Infra Developer for his alleged pivotal role in a massive cyber fraud network. Singh is accused of orchestrating a scheme that siphoned vast sums, reportedly crores of rupees, obtained through various cybercrimes, including the alarming “digital arrest” scam. These ill-gotten gains were systematically routed into the corporate accounts of his real estate company. Investigations reveal that Singh received his illicit commissions in the form of cryptocurrency, specifically USDT, facilitated through the Binance application, highlighting the modern and complex nature of these financial deceptions.
The Chilling Coercion of a Retired Scientist
This elaborate fraud began with the distressing experience of Shukdev Nandi, a retired scientist. Nandi endured a harrowing “digital arrest” for three agonizing days, during which he was subjected to intense psychological pressure and threats of imprisonment. Posing as law enforcement and Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) officials, the fraudsters coerced Nandi into transferring a staggering ₹1.29 crore directly into the company’s account. This fraudulent transfer was presented as a necessary step in a fabricated “investigation,” leaving the victim with no choice but to comply under duress.
STF’s Swift Action and Broadening Investigation
The Special Task Force (STF) moved swiftly, arresting Pradeep Kumar Singh and another individual, Mahfooz, who had also opened an account utilized for the fraudulent transactions. The arrests mark a crucial step in dismantling this intricate criminal enterprise. Investigators are now probing the wider implications of this network, suspecting international connections that may extend to Cambodia and China. The STF is actively pursuing other key members of the syndicate, identified as Ankit and Deepak, as they aim to dismantle the entire operation and bring all perpetrators to justice.
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A New Era of Cybercrime Sophistication
The use of “digital arrest” as a scare tactic, combined with the integration of digital currencies like USDT and platforms such as Binance, showcases a new frontier in illicit financial operations. These methods allow criminals to operate with a degree of anonymity and global reach, making detection and prosecution increasingly challenging. The ongoing investigation serves as a reminder of the evolving landscape of financial crime and the critical need for enhanced cybersecurity measures and public awareness to combat these advanced threats.