The Detection of Crime Branch (DCB) of Surat police has apprehended an absconding accused in a major digital arrest fraud case involving the extortion of Rs 1.34 crore from a 90-year-old woman in Karnataka. The accused, identified as Jignesh alias Jigo Mistry Vaghadiya, 42, a resident of Amroli, was arrested on Thursday from New Kosad Road in Amroli.
Background of the Case
According to police officials, Vaghadiya was wanted in connection with a case registered at Kolar Cyber Police Station in Karnataka. Investigators consider him a key member of a digital arrest racket that specifically targeted elderly victims by impersonating government and law enforcement officials.
How the Fraud Unfolded
The fraud took place in December 2024. The 90-year-old woman initially received WhatsApp calls from a man posing as an officer of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI). The caller falsely claimed that her mobile number was being used for illegal activities and threatened that her phone services would be disconnected. Subsequently, she began receiving video calls from other members of the racket, who allegedly posed as officials from the Delhi Police and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). They kept her under digital arrest.
Under sustained fear and psychological pressure, the woman was coerced into transferring Rs 1.34 crore to bank accounts operated by the fraudsters. The entire operation was meticulously planned to exploit the victim's trust in authorities and her lack of familiarity with cyber fraud tactics.
Arrest and Investigation
Surat police described Vaghadiya's arrest as a significant breakthrough in the case. He was produced before a local court and remanded to police custody for further interrogation. Investigators are now working to trace other members of the gang and uncover the wider network behind the cyber fraud operation.
This case highlights the growing menace of digital arrest scams, where fraudsters use fear and impersonation to extort money from vulnerable individuals, particularly the elderly. Police have urged citizens to remain vigilant and verify any such calls before taking action.
