Delhi Police has busted a fraudulent cybercrime ring operating under the guise of “Digital Arrest,” arresting four members. These individuals impersonated Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) officers to extort ₹44.50 lakh from a victim.
New Delhi: Delhi Police have arrested four cybercriminals for allegedly defrauding a person of ₹44.50 lakh using a “Digital Arrest” scam, where they posed as Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) officers. Authorities announced the arrests on Sunday. “Digital Arrest” is a type of cybercrime where perpetrators impersonate law enforcement officials, using fabricated accusations to intimidate victims into paying money or sharing personal information. Police seized several digital devices and forged documents during the arrests.
How were they caught?
Birendra Kumar Indora, a resident of Mayur Vihar Phase-1, filed a police complaint on January 29th. He reported that an unknown individual contacted him, identifying themselves as a CBI officer and falsely accusing him of criminal activity. The gang threatened arrest and extorted ₹44.50 lakh from Indora.
During the investigation, police discovered that ₹38 lakh had been transferred to the bank account of Dinesh Singhadia, a Jaipur resident. A police team subsequently conducted a raid in Jaipur on March 5th and arrested Dinesh. During interrogation, Dinesh revealed the involvement of five other accomplices in the fraud.
Other Accused Apprehended
Based on Dinesh's statement, police arrested Prashant Verma, who assisted in opening the bank account. Further investigation revealed the involvement of Prakash Chaudhary and Mahesh Nehra. Police launched a raid in Kuchaman, Rajasthan, and arrested Gajendra Kumar, who helped Dinesh withdraw the ₹38 lakh from the bank.
DCP Abhishek Dhaniya stated that Mahesh Nehra was the mastermind of the operation, with direct links to international cybercriminals. Prakash Chaudhary assisted Nehra in withdrawing the fraudulently obtained money through social media. The accused's primary role was to illegally withdraw money via checks and ATMs and forward it to their overseas operators.
Profiles of the Accused
Dinesh Singhadia (26): A DJ assistant and daily wage laborer in Jaipur.
Prashant Verma (24): Worked as a DJ.
Prakash Chaudhary (21): A college dropout involved in cybercrime and fraud.
Gajendra Kumar: A B.Sc graduate preparing for government examinations.
Mobile Phones and Evidence Recovered
Police seized four mobile phones used by the gang in the fraud. Police suspect the gang was involved in numerous similar cybercrimes. They are currently investigating the gang's other members and international connections. Authorities claim the gang used social engineering to pressure victims into handing over money.
