CBI raids over 80 locations in 16 states in digital arrest scam case, arrests two
New Delhi, June 25
In a major crackdown on cybercrime networks facilitating "digital arrest" scams, the Central Bureau of Investigation, under Operation Chakra-VI, constituted 60 special teams and conducted coordinated searches at more than 80 locations across 16 states.
The searches were carried out in Punjab, Gujarat, Delhi, Maharashtra, Haryana, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Assam, West Bengal, Manipur, Karnataka and Odisha as part of an ongoing investigation aimed at dismantling an organised network involved in more than 200 cases of digital arrest fraud.
During the operation, the CBI arrested two individuals from Chennai and Kolkata for their alleged involvement in the creation of shell companies and the opening and operation of mule bank accounts. These accounts were reportedly used to launder around Rs 2 crore of suspected proceeds of crime.
According to officials on Thursday, the agency recently uncovered a fraudulent website with a URL deceptively similar to that of the official website of the Supreme Court of India. Fraudsters allegedly used the fake domain to deceive victims by creating a false impression of legal authority under the guise of digital arrest threats.
Based on a complaint received from the Registry of the Supreme Court, the CBI registered an FIR and initiated a detailed investigation into the matter.
Using advanced forensic tools and technical analysis, investigators identified key components of the cybercriminal infrastructure, which was found to be operating both within India and abroad. The probe revealed that the accused were uploading forged and fabricated documents, including fake court orders and documents resembling those issued by law enforcement agencies, in order to lend legitimacy to their fraudulent activities.
During the searches, officials recovered several incriminating materials, including digital devices, mobile phones and bank transaction records. These have been seized and are currently being subjected to forensic examination.
The investigation has also indicated that, in addition to Indian citizens, individuals from several other countries may have been targeted and defrauded by the same network. Relevant information is being shared with international law enforcement agencies through appropriate channels.
Officials said the probe is ongoing, and further arrests cannot be ruled out as more links in the network are being uncovered.
— IANS
Reader Comments
About time! These digital arrest scams have been terrorizing people across India. My aunt in Bangalore got a call claiming she had a pending arrest warrant from the Supreme Court and had to pay ₹50,000 to avoid arrest. She was so scared. I'm glad CBI is finally cracking down with something like Operation Chakra-VI. More awareness campaigns needed too.
Rs 2 crore laundered through shell companies and mule accounts—that's just the tip of the iceberg likely. Good job by CBI but we need stronger banking regulations. How do these fake companies keep opening accounts? Banks need to do proper KYC. Also, glad international cooperation is happening—these cybercriminals operate across borders.
As someone who works in cybersecurity, I'm impressed by the coordination across 16 states. Digital arrest scams are a huge problem globally, not just in India. The fake Supreme Court website shows how clever these criminals are—exploiting people's trust in institutions. Hope this sends a strong message to other cybercriminals operating in the region.
Good start but why only 2 arrests from 80 locations? Feels like the small fish were caught while the big sharks are still out there. Also, digital arrest scams have been running for years—what took so long? Need faster action and better public education so people don't fall for these threats. Still, appreciate CBI's efforts.
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