Mumbai Businessman Loses ₹58 Crore in ‘Digital Arrest’ Scam, Three Arrested

Mumbai: In one of the largest reported cases of ‘digital arrest’ cyber fraud targeting an individual, a 72-year-old Mumbai businessman was allegedly duped of ₹58 crore by fraudsters pretending to be officials from the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), police said on Thursday.

The Maharashtra Cyber Department, which is investigating the case, has arrested three suspects linked to the scam, officials added.

What Is a ‘Digital Arrest’ Scam?

‘Digital arrest’ is an alarming and increasingly common form of cybercrime. In such scams, fraudsters pose as law enforcement or government agency officials and intimidate victims through video or audio calls. They pressure individuals into transferring money, claiming legal consequences if they refuse.

How the Scam Unfolded

According to the FIR, the fraudsters contacted the businessman multiple times between August 19 and October 8, claiming his name had surfaced in a money laundering case.

The suspects reportedly made video calls to him and his wife, convincing them they were under “digital arrest.” Overwhelmed by fear, the businessman was coerced into transferring money to the accounts specified by the scammers.

Over a span of about two months, the victim transferred ₹58 crore through RTGS across at least 18 different bank accounts. Only after realizing he had been cheated did he approach the cyber police.

Police Action and Arrests

Upon registering the complaint under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Information Technology Act, the Maharashtra Cyber Department traced the financial transactions and froze the amounts in the multiple bank accounts used by the fraudsters.

The police identified and arrested three individuals allegedly involved:

• Abdul Khulli (47) from Malad

• Arjun Kadvasara (55) and his brother Jetharam Kadvasara (35) from Mumbai Central

Investigations are ongoing to uncover whether more people were involved in the racket.

A Cautionary Tale

This case highlights the growing sophistication of cybercriminals, who exploit fear and authority to manipulate victims, often targeting the elderly or financially prominent individuals.

Cybercrime experts advise never to share sensitive financial details over calls, video chats, or messages, and to verify claims of legal action directly with official authorities before taking any steps.