The Cyber Police Station of Assam's Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has initiated a major probe into a sophisticated cyber fraud case, where a senior surgeon from Jorhat was swindled of a massive sum. The victim is Dr. Sadagar Deuri, a respected senior professor of surgery at Jorhat Medical College and Hospital (JMCH), widely recognized for his philanthropic work as "Dukhiyar Bondhu" or "Friend of the Poor."
Modus Operandi: Impersonation and Digital Arrest
Investigators have revealed that the scam was executed using the "digital arrest" method. In this scheme, cybercriminals pose as law enforcement officials, such as police or CBI officers, to instill fear in their targets. The fraudsters contacted Dr. Deuri, falsely accusing him of involvement in illegal activities. They then conducted a fake interrogation and placed him under a so-called "digital arrest," threatening severe legal consequences unless he complied with their demands for money.
Under this pressure and deception, Dr. Deuri was manipulated into transferring funds. The total amount defrauded stands at approximately Rs 49 lakh, which was siphoned off through a series of transactions orchestrated by the criminals.
Breakthrough in Investigation: Funds Frozen
In a significant development, the CID's cyber unit has made quick progress in tracking the illicit money trail. In the initial phase of the investigation, authorities have successfully placed a hold on over Rs 8 lakh of the stolen money. This action prevents the fraudsters from accessing these funds.
A formal First Information Report (FIR) has been registered at the Cyber Police Station, marking the official start of a comprehensive investigation. The CID is now deploying all its technical and investigative resources to unravel the full network behind this crime. Coordinated efforts with multiple banks and financial institutions are actively underway to identify and freeze additional accounts linked to the scam and to facilitate the reversal of more funds to the victim.
Ongoing Probe and Inter-Agency Collaboration
The investigation is progressing with a focus on tracing the complete digital footprint and money trail. The CID is leveraging inter-agency collaboration, working with other state and national cybersecurity and financial intelligence units, to identify the perpetrators who are likely part of an organized syndicate. The case highlights the alarming rise in complex cyber frauds targeting professionals and common citizens alike across India.
Dr. Deuri's stature as a beloved doctor known for helping the poor adds a poignant layer to this crime, underscoring how cybercriminals show no discretion in choosing their victims. The Assam Police have urged the public to remain vigilant against such calls from unknown numbers claiming to be from government agencies and demanding money.
