Nashik | A shocking cyber fraud case has emerged from Malegaon in Maharashtra where a woman doctor was cheated of ₹42 lakh after being trapped in a so-called “digital arrest” scam. The cybercriminals impersonated investigation agency officials and threatened her with involvement in a fake money laundering case. The victim was psychologically pressured through repeated video calls. Following the complaint, Nashik cyber police registered a case against four suspects and started investigation.
According to police, the woman doctor residing in the Soygaon area of Patilwadi locality received calls from unknown numbers between February 9 and February 26, 2026. The callers introduced themselves as officials of an investigation agency and falsely claimed that the victim’s name had surfaced in a major financial scam. The fraudsters alleged that a bank account had been opened in her name in connection with a former airline company’s financial irregularities and that illegal transactions worth crores had been carried out through it.
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The fraudsters further claimed that ₹2 crore had been deposited in the victim’s account and that she had allegedly received ₹25 lakh as commission. To make the story appear more credible, the cyber criminals sent fake investigation documents and threatened legal action. The accused also used WhatsApp and video calls to constantly create the impression that the victim was under surveillance.
To intensify fear, the fraudsters staged a fake “digital arrest” scenario and forced the woman doctor to stay connected on video call. They threatened that if she did not cooperate with the investigation, her grandchildren would be kidnapped and her family members killed. Terrified by these threats, the victim transferred money multiple times into the bank accounts provided by the accused, totaling ₹42 lakh.
After realizing she had been cheated, the victim immediately approached cyber police and filed a complaint. Police registered a case and began technical investigation. Preliminary findings suggest that an organized cybercrime gang may be behind the fraud. Authorities are analysing the suspects’ locations and bank transaction records.
Cybersecurity experts said that criminals involved in “digital arrest” scams try to break victims psychologically. Renowned cybercrime expert and former IPS officer Prof. Triveni Singh said,
“Cyber fraudsters use social engineering techniques by creating fear of investigation agencies. Any phone call threatening arrest on behalf of a government agency is a highly suspicious signal. People should verify such calls immediately and avoid transferring money without confirmation.”
Police have urged citizens not to share personal information during unknown calls. People are especially advised not to share bank details, OTPs, Aadhaar information or other confidential data with strangers. Officials emphasized that no government or police agency conducts investigations or arrests through video calls.
Nashik cyber police said suspects named Satya, Divesh Kumar Pandey, Ranjit Kumar Satya and Prem Kumar Gautam are believed to be involved in the case. Investigation is continuing under the supervision of Police Inspector Nagesh Mohite, and special teams have been formed to arrest the accused.
Authorities have appealed to the public to immediately contact the cybercrime helpline number 1930 if anyone attempts to intimidate them in the name of “digital arrest” or investigation. Police stated that stricter action will be taken against such cyber fraud networks in the future.
About the author — Suvedita Nath is a science student with a growing interest in cybercrime and digital safety. She writes on online activity, cyber threats, and technology-driven risks. Her work focuses on clarity, accuracy, and public awareness.
