Delhi Police Arrest Three in Major Digital Arrest Scam, Bust Mule Account Network

NEW DELHI, MARCH 18: The Delhi Police has arrested three individuals for allegedly supporting a large cyber fraud operation linked to a “digital arrest” scam that cheated a resident of Paschim Vihar out of ₹14.2 lakh. Authorities said the accused played a key role in arranging bank accounts used to receive and transfer proceeds of the crime.

According to police officials, the arrested persons—Md Kaif and Monish from Shamli district in Uttar Pradesh, and Sashindar Ram from Rangareddi district in Andhra Pradesh—were involved in opening and managing mule accounts to help layer and conceal funds obtained through cyber fraud. These accounts were reportedly used to circulate money collected from victims.

The case began after a complaint was filed on February 21 by Satyapal Gupta, who alleged that he received a phone call from an individual claiming to be a senior police officer. The caller accused him of involvement in money laundering activities and threatened him with arrest, creating fear and urgency. Under pressure, the victim transferred ₹14.2 lakh to an account provided by the fraudsters before realizing he had been deceived and approaching the police.

During investigation, officers traced the initial beneficiary account to a current account registered under Renudar Services & Solutions Private Ltd. Preliminary analysis revealed suspicious transactions worth approximately ₹2.2 crore. Technical surveillance and financial tracking led investigators to identify key suspects connected to the network.

Police teams apprehended Sashindar Ram near ISBT Kashmere Gate on March 9. During questioning, he allegedly admitted to allowing his bank account to be used for fraudulent transactions in exchange for commission. He also reportedly revealed that the account had been specifically created for such illegal activities.

Following his disclosure and further technical evidence, Kaif and Monish were arrested from Kairana and Saharanpur, respectively. Officials described them as team leaders responsible for recruiting individuals and facilitating the opening of bank accounts to support cybercrime operations.

Three mobile phones were seized during the arrests, and forensic examination reportedly uncovered incriminating chats and communications linked to the fraud syndicate. Investigators believe the network may involve additional members and are continuing efforts to identify others connected to the organised operation.

Police have urged citizens to remain cautious against threats involving “digital arrest” scams, emphasizing that law enforcement agencies do not demand money transfers over phone calls. Further investigation into the wider cybercrime network is underway.