Surat Cyber Police Thwart Russia Escape, Arrest Key Accused in Major Digital Scam
In a significant development, the Surat cybercrime police have successfully apprehended a wanted cyber fraudster at the Delhi airport, moments before he could board a flight to Russia. This arrest represents a crucial breakthrough in a high-profile Rs 1.71 crore 'digital arrest' scam that specifically targeted a senior citizen back in December 2024.
Accused Nabbed After Year-Long Manhunt
The arrested individual, identified as Shankar Chaudhary (37), had been evading law enforcement for nearly a year. He was actively sought for his alleged role in supplying mule bank accounts that were instrumental in siphoning off the defrauded funds. Chaudhary now becomes the sixth accused to be taken into custody in this elaborate case.
Police officials disclosed that Chaudhary had managed to stay under the radar since his involvement first came to light during the initial investigation phases. However, his plans to relocate to Russia ultimately led to his downfall. Unbeknownst to him, authorities had already issued a lookout circular (LOC) against his name, ensuring his movements were closely monitored.
Detailed Escape Plan Foiled at Delhi Airport
Investigations reveal that Chaudhary had recently begun making inquiries about moving to Russia and, through an agent, successfully obtained a visa. Confident in his escape strategy, he proceeded to the Delhi airport to depart the country. It was at this critical juncture that the Surat cybercrime team intercepted and arrested him, effectively foiling his international escape attempt.
Further probe into Chaudhary's activities uncovered that he had previously traveled to Dubai with another co-accused, Rameshwar Suthar. During this trip, he allegedly established connections with a sophisticated cybercrime syndicate. Upon returning to India, Chaudhary is accused of orchestrating the arrangement of mule bank accounts for this syndicate, reportedly receiving commissions in return for his services.
Modus Operandi of the Rs 1.71 Crore Scam
The December 2024 scam involved fraudsters contacting an elderly victim under false pretenses. They deceitfully claimed that a SIM card and bank account linked to his Aadhaar were involved in a money-laundering case. The senior citizen was then subjected to threats of severe consequences and placed under what the scammers termed a 'digital arrest'.
To add credibility to their threats, the perpetrators sent counterfeit letters that appeared to be issued by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). Under immense pressure and fear, the victim was coerced into transferring a staggering Rs 1.71 crore to the fraudsters' accounts.
Previous Arrests and Legal Proceedings
Prior to Chaudhary's capture, the police had already arrested five other individuals connected to this scam. The list of previously apprehended accused includes Mukesh Patel, Mehul Patel, Dungarsinh Rajput, Kesarsinh Devda, and Rameshwar Suthar. Each arrest has progressively unraveled the layers of this complex cyber fraud operation.
Following his arrest at the Delhi airport, Shankar Chaudhary was promptly presented before a court. The judicial authorities have remanded him to three days of police custody, allowing investigators to conduct further interrogation and gather additional evidence related to his involvement and the broader syndicate.
