Delhi Police Arrests Three in Rs 88 Lakh Digital Arrest and Investment Fraud Operation

The Delhi Police has apprehended three individuals accused of operating a sophisticated digital arrest and investment fraud operation that defrauded victims of more than Rs 88 lakh, authorities announced on Tuesday.

The suspects were captured during synchronized police operations across Delhi, Gurugram and Hisar. The three men have been identified as Ravi (19), Mandeep (21), and Kaleem (32), who resides in Tughlakabad Extension, Delhi.

A senior police officer explained, "These individuals were operating as part of an organized cyber-enabled financial fraud network that employed intimidation tactics, impersonation of law enforcement agencies, and fraudulent investment platforms to target unsuspecting victims."

In one notable case, a 71-year-old woman was coerced into transferring Rs 49 lakh after receiving threatening calls from individuals falsely claiming to be police officials who warned of legal consequences.

Another victim, a 43-year-old stationery shop owner, lost Rs 39.5 lakh after being lured by promises of substantial returns through cryptocurrency investment schemes, according to police reports.

Officials revealed that Ravi and Kaleem established 'mule bank accounts' which they subsequently sold for commission payments, while Mandeep is alleged to have facilitated the circulation of one such account within their criminal network.

The three suspects frequently relocated to avoid capture, but were ultimately traced through technical surveillance operations and local intelligence gathering, authorities confirmed.

Police explained that the group employed the common digital arrest strategy, wherein callers impersonated government officials or police personnel to intimidate victims into transferring funds.

The gang also operated counterfeit investment platforms and channeled illicit funds through multiple bank accounts before withdrawing cash via ATMs. They reportedly recruited unemployed young people to manage these financial accounts.

Authorities indicated that investigations into the full extent of the operation are continuing.