₹2.52 Crore Digital Arrest Scam Busted, Four Accused Arrested, Cyber Fraud Network Spreads Across Delhi and Other States

Gwalior authorities have successfully dismantled a ₹2.52 crore digital arrest scam, arresting four individuals linked to a sprawling cyber fraud ring operating across Delhi and multiple Indian states. The Crime Branch’s investigation revealed that the fraudsters impersonated officials from a central investigative agency and psychologically coerced a retired Indian Air Force radiologist into transferring large sums of money over 27 days of continuous video surveillance.

Multi-State Money Movement Across 15 States

The investigation uncovered a complex money laundering operation involving more than 300 bank accounts across 15 states including Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Jharkhand, Bihar, Assam, and Karnataka. Initially, approximately ₹1.5 crore was funneled into two accounts in Andhra Pradesh, while nearly ₹1 crore was transferred to three accounts across Delhi and Uttar Pradesh. The funds were quickly dispersed through multiple accounts to evade detection.

Suspicious Shell Company Under Scrutiny

Authorities also traced part of the scam’s financial trail to a Delhi-based shell company named “Jingga Crunch and Snacks.” The firm’s bank account was reportedly used to facilitate fraudulent transactions. Police raided multiple shops linked to the firm and detained two suspects, Mohit Mishra and Shahil Khan. Both admitted to receiving commissions for allowing their company’s account to be exploited, though they claimed no involvement in the core fraudulent operations. Investigators suspect the firm was a front directed by higher-ranking members of the cybercriminal syndicate.

Arrests and Network Breakdown

Further probes led to the arrest of Rahul Prajapati and Harish Yadav, accused of opening mule accounts and managing financial channels for the scam. The gang used psychological manipulation—threatening victims with legal repercussions and instructing them to avoid contact with others—to instill fear and compliance. The retired doctor, their prime victim, was falsely told he was under investigation, prompting him to comply with repeated demands for money transfers.

Anatomy of a Digital Arrest Scam

Cybersecurity experts characterize such scams as evolving schemes that exploit fear to extract money via online banking. The Future Crime Research Foundation noted that the use of mule accounts and multi-layered transactions complicates tracing stolen funds and identifying perpetrators. Law enforcement continues interrogations and is actively working to dismantle the entire fraud network, which they believe has additional active members.

Authorities urge the public to remain vigilant and avoid sharing personal or financial details with unknown callers, especially those employing aggressive or threatening tactics via phone or video calls.