Delhi Police’s Cyber Cell has arrested three key suspects in a cyber fraud case that saw a 71‑year‑old woman defrauded of ₹49 lakh through a chilling tactic known as “digital arrest.” The breakthrough comes amid a broader crackdown on organised online fraud networks exploiting fear and impersonation to extract vast sums of money from victims.
How the scam unfolded
According to police, the elderly victim received calls from individuals posing as law enforcement officers, claiming her identity and bank accounts were implicated in criminal activity. Using intimidation and fabricated legal documents, the scammers coerced her into transferring approximately ₹49 lakh to multiple bank accounts under the threat of arrest if she failed to comply.
This method, termed “digital arrest,” involves fraudsters impersonating government or police officials, often using phone calls or messaging apps to make victims believe they are under investigation. Victims are repeatedly instructed to transfer money to accounts controlled by the syndicate to “clear their name,” with scammers monitoring and directing them throughout the process.
Arrests and investigation
In coordinated operations across Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, the Delhi Police Cyber Cell traced the fraudulent transactions and located the suspects, who were frequently on the move to evade detection. Police identified and arrested three individuals deeply involved in facilitating the scam:
Arjun Saini (20) — allegedly opened and managed mule bank accounts.
Vimlesh (19) — reportedly recruited and procured additional accounts.
Mohd. Abeed alias Mubashir (20) — accused of supplying financial account kits linked to the fraud network.
Officials said these arrests bring the total number of accused to six, with further suspects being pursued as part of an ongoing investigation.
Police response and wider context
The Delhi Police described the operation as a significant blow to a larger cybercrime ecosystem that relies on impersonation and psychological manipulation of victims — particularly the elderly — to siphon off life savings. Technical surveillance and field intelligence were critical in tracking down the suspects and dismantling parts of the network.
Cybercrime experts warn that such scams are on the rise, with fraudsters increasingly sophisticated in using fake legal notices, impersonation of agencies like the ED or CBI, and persistent contact to build fear and compliance. Authorities emphasise that no legitimate enforcement agency conducts arrests via phone or video call and urge people to remain vigilant and report suspicious communications to law enforcement.