TNR News Network
MANDI: In a chilling case of cyber fraud, a retired Army man from Bilaspur was allegedly held under a so-called “digital arrest” for over two weeks and cheated of nearly Rs 98 lakh by fraudsters posing as officials of the CBI, RBI, telecom department and the judiciary.
The accused used fear, fake video calls and staged court proceedings to extort money. A case has been registered at the Cyber Crime Police Station, Mandi (Central Range), and investigations are underway.
Fake officials, forged charges
According to the complaint, the ex-serviceman was contacted through phone and video calls by unknown persons claiming to be officers from various central agencies. He was falsely told that a SIM card issued in his name was being used for illegal activities and that he was linked to a money laundering case. To lend credibility, the callers introduced themselves as officials from the telecom department, CBI, RBI and even a court.
‘Digital arrest’ and staged court hearing
The victim alleged that the fraudsters placed him under “digital arrest” from December 15 to 30, instructing him not to step out of his house or speak to anyone. During this period, he was subjected to continuous video calls showing a fake court setup. The accused even displayed an alleged arrest warrant and warned him of imprisonment ranging from five to seven years if he disclosed the matter. In one such video call, a person posing as a judge ordered him to deposit his assets and funds with the “court”.
Money transferred, digital trail erased
Under severe mental pressure, the complainant transferred money to multiple bank accounts shared by the fraudsters, resulting in a total loss of around Rs 98 lakh. The accused also allegedly forced him to delete call logs, messages and other digital evidence from his mobile phone. Cyber police are now collecting technical and financial details to trace the perpetrators.
Superintendent of Police (Cyber) Rohit Malpani urged the public to remain vigilant against such scams. He cautioned that no government agency conducts arrests, investigations or court proceedings via phone or video calls, and advised people never to share bank details, OTPs or personal information. Citizens have been asked to immediately report suspicious calls to the nearest police station or the cyber helpline.
