Rupnagar Nov 24
A retired female lecturer in Rupnagar was duped of ₹99.49 lakh after being threatened with a money laundering case and a so-called “digital arrest.” The victim revealed that she received a video call on November 18, during which the scam unfolded.
The woman, a widow, explained that the caller identified himself as an officer from the Crime Branch in Mumbai. When she asked for the reason behind the video call, the caller warned her not to disconnect the phone, claiming she had already been “digitally arrested” for a money laundering case registered in Mumbai.
Accusation of Multiple Accounts Involved in Money Laundering
The caller alleged that six bank accounts in her name were being used for money laundering and mentioned an ongoing investigation by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). Referring to a DHL company employee as a witness, the caller handed over the call to a so-called senior officer, who spoke in Urdu and confirmed the case.
Threats and a Fake Crime Branch Setup
The victim recounted that the next person on the call introduced himself as Bal Singh Rajput, claiming to be the Director General of Crime in Mumbai. Behind him, a fake Crime Branch logo was visible, and he showed fabricated digital arrest warrants during the conversation, mostly conducted in English.
Overnight Coercion and Money Transfer
The scammers kept the woman on the call overnight, coercing her to transfer money. They assured her that if the RBI investigation cleared her of involvement in money laundering, her money would be refunded. Otherwise, she was told to prepare for a legal trial. Terrified, the woman transferred ₹99.49 lakh. Once the transaction was completed, she was informed that she was no longer “digitally arrested.”
Complaint and Investigation
Upon realizing she had been scammed, the victim filed a complaint with the Cyber Crime Police Station in Rupnagar. Inspector Rajneesh Kumar confirmed that a case was registered on November 22 and an investigation has begun.
How to Report Cyber Fraud
Authorities urge victims of cybercrime to report incidents immediately. Financial fraud complaints can be filed at www.cybercrime.gov.in or by calling 1930. Prompt reporting increases the chances of catching perpetrators and recovering lost funds.
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