Cyber Police Bust Rs 32 Lakh ‘Digital Arrest’ Scam; Six Arrested from South Mumbai

The Cyber Police Station (North Division), Mumbai Crime Branch, successfully cracked a Rs 32 lakh cyber fraud case, arresting six individuals from a South Mumbai hotel. The suspects, hailing from Rajasthan, were part of a sophisticated syndicate operating a scam dubbed the "Digital Arrest."

The complainant, Kiran Jitendra Nagare, a 49-year-old Kandivali resident, was targeted on December 12, 2024. Posing as TRAI officials, the fraudsters called Nagare and claimed his mobile number was being deactivated for its alleged involvement in crimes. They pressured him into believing he was under investigation by senior police and CBI officials.

Using WhatsApp calls and messages, the fraudsters created a sense of urgency, claiming an arrest warrant and orders to freeze his bank accounts had been issued. They sent fake documents resembling official RBI letters and coerced Nagare to transfer ₹32 lakh to various bank accounts under the pretense of verifying his savings.

The police registered an FIR under relevant sections of the IPC and IT Act and launched a technical investigation. They traced the fraudulent transactions to a Kotak Mahindra Bank account in Chembur and 15 other beneficiary accounts.

The police apprehended six suspects from a South Mumbai hotel identified, Gangavishan Jetaram Manju (32), Vikas Manoharlal Bishnoi (21), Premsukh Sohanram Bishnoi (19), Ramniwas Rawalram Bishnoi (32), Sunil Manoharlal Bishnoi (24), Ajaykumar Malaram Bishnoi (21). 

The accused opened multiple current bank accounts to receive and withdraw the fraudulently obtained money. The investigation revealed their intent to convert the funds to cryptocurrency (USDT) and transfer it abroad.

During the operation, the police seized,16 cheque books from various banks, 15 debit cards, 10 mobile phones, 17 SIM cards, Rs 3.5 lakh in cash. 

The suspects were found to be involved in 10 similar cases across the country. The police stated that their modus operandi involved using fake identities, social engineering, and advanced digital tools to dupe victims.

“This gang exploited the victim's fear of legal action to siphon off lakhs. Our prompt action prevented further financial losses and dismantled a significant cybercrime network,” said a senior officer from the Cyber Police.

The arrests highlight the growing threat of cybercrimes and the importance of public awareness regarding online fraud. Authorities have urged citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious calls or activities immediately.