Daijiworld Media Network – Pune
Pune, May 11: An 87-year-old retired executive from Pune was allegedly cheated of Rs 3.46 crore in a “digital arrest” scam by cyber fraudsters posing as senior Central Bureau of Investigation officials, police said.
The Pune city cyber police recently registered an FIR against unidentified persons in connection with the fraud, which allegedly took place between February 21 and April 16 this year.
According to investigators, the scam began when the elderly victim received a video call from a person claiming to be an employee of a telecom company.
The caller allegedly informed him that his mobile number was linked to a CBI investigation and that senior officials would soon contact him.
Soon afterwards, another individual dressed in a police uniform reportedly appeared on a video call and claimed that an arrest warrant had been issued against the victim.
The fraudsters allegedly told the senior citizen that due to his advanced age, the inquiry would be conducted virtually.
Police said another accused later introduced himself as “CBI Director Samadhan Pawar” and falsely accused the victim of involvement in a money laundering case.
The fraudsters allegedly placed the octogenarian under so-called “digital arrest” and warned him not to disclose the matter to anyone.
Investigators said the accused convinced the victim that his bank accounts, investments and savings needed verification and instructed him to transfer funds to what they described as Reserve Bank of India accounts.
Fearing arrest and imprisonment, the elderly man allegedly transferred Rs 3.46 crore through 15 separate transactions over nearly seven weeks.
Police said the money was routed through several mule accounts located across different parts of the country.
The fraud came to light only after the victim discussed the matter with family members, who suspected foul play and advised him to approach the police.
Officials explained that in “digital arrest” scams, fraudsters impersonate police, CBI, cybercrime or other law enforcement officials and falsely accuse victims of serious crimes such as money laundering or identity theft.
Victims are then threatened with immediate arrest or legal action unless they comply with the fraudsters’ demands.
According to Home Ministry data, Indians reportedly lost at least Rs 22,495 crore to cyber fraud in 2025, with digital arrest scams accounting for a significant share of the losses.
Authorities have repeatedly advised citizens not to panic when receiving such calls and to verify any claims directly with official agencies before transferring money.