Kolkata Trader Defrauded of Rs 5.5 Lakh in Elaborate Digital Arrest Scam
In a distressing case of cyber fraud, a trader from Metiabruz in Kolkata has reportedly lost Rs 5.5 lakh in a sophisticated digital arrest scam. According to police reports, the perpetrators allegedly posed as law enforcement officials, subjecting the victim to intense pressure and continuous surveillance for nearly a full month.
The Deceptive Onset of the Fraud
The fraudulent ordeal began on January 12, around 3:25 PM, when the trader received an unexpected WhatsApp video call from an unknown number. The caller's display picture prominently featured the insignia of 'Delhi Police', lending an air of official legitimacy to the communication. The individual on the call introduced himself as an officer from a central investigative agency, immediately putting the victim on high alert.
The scammer presented a fabricated narrative, claiming that a bank account had been illicitly opened using the trader's Aadhaar credentials. This account, the caller alleged, was being utilized for extensive money laundering activities involving approximately Rs 6 crore. To escalate the fear factor, the fraudster further asserted that a formal case had been registered against the trader for grave offences, including money laundering and even human trafficking. The caller issued a stern warning that arrest was imminent unless immediate compliance was secured.
A Month of Manipulation and Isolation
From January 12 until February 10, the victim was subjected to a relentless campaign of psychological manipulation. The scammer issued strict instructions not to disclose the matter to anyone, including family members, under the guise of protecting an ongoing investigation. The trader was repeatedly contacted via WhatsApp, maintaining a constant state of anxiety and control.
During this prolonged period, the fraudsters systematically extracted sensitive information. The victim was coerced into sharing detailed banking and financial credentials. In a shocking move to further isolate him, the scammers instructed the trader to leave his home and check into a hotel, ostensibly to prevent any conversations with family that might jeopardize the supposed 'investigation'. This isolation tactic effectively cut off potential sources of advice or intervention.
The Financial Blow and Eventual Realization
The scam culminated on February 2, when the caller directed the trader to transfer Rs 5.5 lakh via RTGS to a specified bank account. Under duress and fearing legal repercussions, the victim complied with the instruction. Following the successful transfer, all communication from the scammer ceased abruptly. The sudden silence led the trader to the grim realization that he had been the target of an elaborate and costly fraud.
Legal Recourse and Police Investigation
Upon recognizing the deception, the trader promptly approached the Kolkata police. He filed a formal complaint with the cyber crime unit, providing all relevant documentation and detailed transaction records related to the fraudulent transfer. Police authorities have confirmed the receipt of the complaint and are investigating the matter, highlighting the growing threat of such digital impersonation scams.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the sophisticated tactics employed by cyber criminals, who exploit trust in law enforcement to execute financial fraud. Citizens are urged to exercise extreme caution with unsolicited digital communications and to verify the credentials of anyone claiming to be from official agencies through independent, verified channels.
