The Haryana Police have arrested a third individual in connection with a sophisticated cyber fraud where an elderly couple from Dharuhera was digitally arrested and extorted for ₹1.89 crore. The accused, identified as Ravi Kumar, was apprehended from his hideout in Rajasthan's Alwar district on Tuesday.
Details of the Cyber Fraud
According to the police, the fraudsters posed as officials from various government agencies, including the Narcotics Control Bureau and the Reserve Bank of India. They contacted the elderly couple, claiming that their bank accounts were involved in money laundering and other illegal activities. The victims were then subjected to a 'digital arrest,' where they were forced to stay on video calls and not communicate with anyone.
How the Scam Unfolded
The accused, along with his accomplices, created a fake environment to intimidate the victims. They demanded money to resolve the fabricated charges. Over a period of several weeks, the couple transferred a total of ₹1.89 crore to multiple bank accounts provided by the scammers. The fraud came to light when the victims' son, who lives abroad, became suspicious and alerted the police.
Police Investigation and Arrests
Following a detailed investigation, the police arrested two other suspects earlier. Ravi Kumar, the latest arrest, is believed to be a key operator who managed the money trail. The police have recovered several mobile phones, SIM cards, and bank documents from his possession. The investigation is ongoing to identify other members of the cybercrime network.
Modus Operandi of Digital Arrest Scams
In a digital arrest scam, fraudsters impersonate law enforcement or regulatory officials and claim that the victim has committed a serious crime. They then demand payment to avoid legal consequences. The victims are often kept under constant surveillance through video calls and threatened with arrest if they disconnect. This psychological pressure forces them to comply with the demands.
Precautions for Citizens
The police have urged citizens to be cautious of such calls and never transfer money to unknown accounts. They advise that no legitimate government agency will demand money over the phone or through video calls. People should immediately report such incidents to the cybercrime helpline or the local police station.
The arrest of Ravi Kumar is a significant breakthrough in the case, and the police are confident of dismantling the entire network. The elderly couple is recovering from the ordeal, and efforts are being made to recover their lost money.
