Mumbai | Cybercriminals in Mumbai executed a digital arrest-style fraud and cheated a 77-year-old senior citizen of more than ₹2.25 crore. The fraudsters posed as police and anti-terror investigation officials and threatened the elderly man with arrest and a 10-year prison sentence. During the investigation, police arrested a suspect, Kishan Bhaveshbhai Makwana, from Gujarat for allegedly providing bank accounts used for transferring the fraud money.
According to police, the entire fraud began in November 2025 when the victim started receiving calls from unknown numbers. The caller introduced himself as a senior officer from the Mumbai Police headquarters and claimed that a bank account had been opened in the victim’s name in Jammu and Kashmir and was being used for suspected terrorist fund transfers. The fraudsters also alleged that the victim had received ₹70 lakh as commission through the account and that he must appear for questioning.
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To make the story appear credible, the fraudsters sent a fake government notice via WhatsApp, which carried signatures resembling that of the then National Investigation Agency chief. The message threatened that non-cooperation with the investigation could lead to 10 years of imprisonment and a ₹5 lakh fine. Copies of fake arrest warrants and seizure orders were also sent to intensify psychological pressure on the victim.
Under fear and panic, the elderly man transferred money from his bank accounts in multiple transactions on the instructions of the accused. Between November 18 and December 3, 2025, more than ₹2.25 crore was transferred to accounts provided by the fraudsters. Later, the fraudsters falsely assured the victim that his “bail had been approved” and that the money would be returned soon.
After realising that he had been cheated, the victim approached the North Regional Cyber Division and filed a complaint. During technical analysis, police traced the financial trail to suspicious bank accounts. The investigation revealed that arrested suspect Kishan Bhaveshbhai Makwana allegedly helped cybercriminals open bank accounts to park fraud proceeds safely.
Officials said cybercriminals are increasingly using fear-based narratives such as digital arrest and fake terrorism investigations to intimidate victims. Cybersecurity experts have warned that social engineering-based frauds are rising rapidly. Renowned cybercrime expert and former IPS officer Prof. Triveni Singh said,
“Cybercriminals exploit panic and urgency by creating terrifying digital arrest scenarios. Any phone call demanding money or claiming arrest by investigative agencies should be treated as highly suspicious and immediately verified.”
Police clarified that no official investigation asks for money transfers. People are advised to remain alert if anyone posing as police, anti-terror agency, or government officer asks for bank details, OTP, or financial transfers. Authorities believe cyber fraud gangs are using mule account networks to rapidly circulate illegal funds.
Investigation agencies are now working to identify other members of the fraud network. Police said technical analysis of financial transactions and cryptocurrency records is ongoing to track the entire syndicate.
Authorities have appealed to the public not to share personal information during unknown calls. If anyone receives threats of “digital arrest”, they should immediately contact local police or the cybercrime helpline. Police claim that strict action will continue against such cyber fraud networks in the coming days.
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.
