CBI raids over 80 locations across 16 states in digital arrest scam crackdown; two arrested

New Delhi [India], June 25 (HBTV): In a major crackdown on the cybercrime infrastructure facilitating digital arrest scams, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) conducted coordinated searches at more than 80 locations across 16 states under Operation Chakra-VI, arresting two persons allegedly involved in operating shell companies and mule bank accounts.

According to a CBI release, 60 special teams carried out the searches across Punjab, Gujarat, Delhi, Maharashtra, Haryana, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Assam, West Bengal, Manipur, Karnataka and Odisha.

The agency said the operation was part of an ongoing investigation aimed at dismantling a network allegedly linked to more than 200 digital arrest scam cases. Two persons were arrested from Chennai and Kolkata for their alleged involvement in incorporating shell companies and opening and operating mule bank accounts.

The bank accounts were reportedly used to launder around INR 2 crore in suspected proceeds of crime.

The CBI also said it recently uncovered a fraudulent website with a URL deceptively similar to the official website of the Supreme Court of India. The fake domain was allegedly used to deceive victims under the guise of a digital arrest.

Based on a complaint from the Registry of the Supreme Court, the agency registered an FIR and launched an investigation.

Using advanced forensic tools and technical expertise, investigators identified key elements of the criminal infrastructure operating both within India and abroad.

The investigation revealed that the accused allegedly uploaded forged and fabricated documents, including fake court orders and documents resembling those issued by various law enforcement agencies, to lend credibility to their fraudulent activities.

During the searches, officials seized several incriminating documents, digital devices, mobile phones and bank transaction records. These materials are being subjected to detailed forensic examination and analysis.

The CBI said it has also found evidence suggesting that, besides Indian citizens, nationals of several other countries may have been defrauded by the same network. The concerned law enforcement agencies in those jurisdictions are being alerted through appropriate channels.

The investigation is continuing.

'CBI remains committed to dismantling cybercrime infrastructure and ensuring justice for victims of cyber-enabled frauds, including digital arrest scams,' the agency said. (ANI)