Crime News

As of early April 2026, a 25-year-old woman from Shahapur, Belagavi, has approached the Police Commissioner alleging serious inaction, collusion, and extortion by local police in a case involving sexual exploitation. Here are the key details regarding the allegations of police inaction in Belagavi: Related 2026 Police Lapses in Belagavi:

A disturbing Instagram love fraud and blackmail case has surfaced in Belagavi, Karnataka, as of early April 2026. A young woman has accused a man she met on Instagram of engaging in a romantic relationship under the guise of marriage, only to later blackmail her, extort money, and sexually exploit her.  Key Details of the Case Related Crime Trends in Belagavi (2026)

In a major operation, Belagavi police recently recovered 27 stolen two-wheelers, including Royal Enfield motorcycles and Suzuki Access scooters. The arrests followed intensive interrogations of suspects, leading to recovery of vehicles stolen from across Belagavi city, including areas like Kakati, Malmaruti, and Marihal.  Key Details of the Operation: The operation significantly tackled bike theft in the regio

In 2025 and early 2026,  Belagavi police conducted major, large-scale crackdowns on ganja (cannabis) trafficking and consumption, targeting both supply chains and local peddlers. Several significant seizures and arrests have been reported, with police strengthening their “War on Drugs” to curb narcotics in the city and district.  Key 2025-2026 Crackdown Highlights: Deportation and Legal Actions:The searches indicate intensified efforts by police under the NDPS (Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances) Act, focusing on bringing in specialized teams, increasing vigilance, and conducting thorough investigations into the source of the drug supplies. The crackdown aims to break the supply chain affecting local youth.

Eight people have been arrested in connection with the murder of a man during a festival (Yatra) in Hannikeri village, located in the Bailhongal taluk of Belagavi district, Karnataka.  Key Details of the Incident: The accused are currently in police custody, and further investigation is ongoing.

Belagavi ‘Digital Arrest’ Scam: 81-Year-Old Duped of ₹15.45 Crore in Phased Cyber Fraud An 81-year-old businessman from Belagavi has been defrauded of ₹15.45 crore in a chilling case of cybercrime involving a fake “digital arrest” threat. The complaint has been registered at the City Cyber, Economic and Narcotics (CEN) Police Station, triggering a high-level investigation. This is the largest single-person cyber fraud reported in Belagavi district, with the possibility of further probe by central agencies if required. How the Fraud Unfolded • The first call was received on February 5 at around 9 AM from an unknown number. • The caller introduced himself as an officer from the CBI, claiming the victim’s bank account was linked to a money laundering case involving a Jet Airways employee. • The elderly man was told he could face immediate arrest unless he cooperated. • To intensify fear, the scammers sent a fake Supreme Court notice on his phone, warning him to be ready for interrogation. Under sustained pressure and fear of arrest, the victim was instructed to: • Share details of all his bank and financial accounts • Transfer funds for “verification” to multiple bank accounts Money Transferred in Phases • The fraud took place between February 7 and March 9 • Funds were transferred in multiple installments ranging from ₹1 crore to ₹2.5 crore • A significant portion came from his stock market (demat) holdings, built over decades The scammers cleverly manipulated him: • They explained that stock investments cannot be directly seized, so he must first transfer them to his bank account • Once transferred, they convinced him to move the funds to their accounts for “investigation clearance” Background of the Victim The victim’s father, had invested a modest sum in shares years ago. Over time, the value of these investments grew substantially to over ₹15 crore. Even his stock broker noticed unusual withdrawals, including nearly ₹6 crore being liquidated within 10 days. When questioned, the elderly man stated he needed funds to purchase land—indicating he was already under the influence of the scammers. Investigation Status • Preliminary findings suggest the calls originated from Uttarakhand • Several bank accounts used by the accused have been frozen, including one holding ₹90 lakh • A special investigation team has been formed Police officials confirmed that recovery of funds will depend on legal procedures. Police Warning Police Commissioner Bhushan Borse stated: There is no such thing as a “digital arrest.” Fraudsters use fear tactics to manipulate victims. People must not panic or act under pressure. What You Should Do If You Receive Such a Call • Stay calm: No agency arrests people over phone or video calls • Never transfer money for verification: This is a clear sign of fraud • Do not share financial details: Bank info, demat accounts, OTPs must remain private • Ignore fake notices: Courts and agencies do not send legal notices via WhatsApp or random messages • Verify independently: Contact your bank or police directly using official numbers • Report immediately: Call 1930 or file a complaint at cybercrime.gov.in • Alert family members: Especially senior citizens who may be targeted