12 Cyber Fraud Suspects Arrested in 17 States Over ₹63 Lakh Dewas Digital Scandal

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A retired factory worker lost approximately ₹63 lakh through a “digital arrest” cyber fraud scheme after scammers impersonating law enforcement officials pressured him into transferring funds.

Incident Overview

The Dewas Police, following a 127-day investigation, identified and arrested 12 suspects across 17 states after tracing the fraudulent network. The victim, Suresh Ingale, reported the incident to the Cyber Helpline 1930 after realizing he had been deceived.

Scam Details

The scam began in March 2026 when individuals contacted the victim via phone and video calls, falsely claiming to represent the Customs Department, Mumbai Crime Branch, and the Central Bureau of Investigation. Over eight days, the perpetrators allegedly gathered details about the victim’s banking and investment accounts before directing him to transfer funds under the guise of an investigation.

Victim’s Experience

Ingale filed a complaint on April 3 after recognizing the deception. The investigation involved 70 personnel working in coordinated teams to track the suspects and analyze financial transactions.

Investigation Details

Police conducted extensive technical and logistical efforts, covering 58,000 kilometers and conducting searches in 33 districts across 17 states, including Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Bihar, and Delhi. Twelve individuals were arrested, with 11 remanded to judicial custody and one from West Bengal under questioning.

Operational Challenges

Authorities recovered 54 mobile devices and 84 SIM cards during the operation. Police emphasized that “digital arrest” is not a recognized legal procedure and warned the public against complying with demands for money from individuals claiming to be government officials.

Key Findings

The investigation also focused on mapping the financial pathways used by the suspects, including bank accounts and communication tools, to trace the movement of illicit funds. Law enforcement agencies continue to analyze the roles of the arrested individuals and their connections within the fraudulent network.

Police Warnings and Public Advice

Superintendent of Police Puneet Gehlod reiterated that victims should verify such claims independently and report incidents immediately through the Cyber Helpline 1930.

Police emphasized that “digital arrest” is not a recognized legal procedure and warned the public against complying with demands for money from individuals claiming to be government officials.

Case Significance and Ongoing Efforts

The case highlights the use of impersonation, intimidation, and prolonged psychological pressure in digital fraud schemes. The investigation also focused on mapping the financial pathways used by the suspects, including bank accounts and communication tools, to trace the movement of illicit funds.