CBI Raids Digital Arrest Scam

The United States — Federal Bureau of Investigation (CBI) launched 'Operation Chakra-VI,' a nationwide crackdown on cybercrime networks involved in 'digital arrest' scams. Over 60 special teams conducted searches at more than 80 locations across 16 states in India, including Punjab, Gujarat, Delhi, Maharashtra, Haryana, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Assam, West Bengal, Manipur, Karnataka, and Odisha. The operation aims to dismantle an organized network linked to over 200 cases of digital arrest fraud. The CBI arrested two individuals, Naresh Pal from Chennai and Sanjib Saha from Kolkata, for their alleged involvement in creating shell companies and operating mule bank accounts used to launder approximately Rs 2 crore of suspected proceeds of crime. Investigators uncovered a fraudulent website with a URL deceptively similar to the official website of the India — Supreme Court of India, which fraudsters used to deceive victims. The CBI registered an FIR based on a complaint from the Registry of the India — Supreme Court of India. The probe revealed that perpetrators uploaded forged documents, including fake court orders, to lend credibility to their fraudulent activities. Incriminating materials like digital devices, mobile phones, and bank transaction records were seized. The investigation also indicates that nationals from other countries may have been targeted, and information is being shared with international law enforcement agencies. Further arrests are expected as the investigation continues.