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
