Two Arrested in International Customs Scam Targeting Software Engineer

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Two individuals were apprehended in connection with a cyber fraud scheme targeting a software engineer through international communications, allegedly involving false claims of seized foreign currency.

Cyber Fraud Scheme Targeting Software Engineer

Authorities in Andhra Pradesh reported that the suspects deceived the victim into transferring ₹21.37 lakh under the pretense of facilitating the release of U.S. dollars detained by customs officials. The scam involved a series of coordinated calls and financial transactions, culminating in the arrest of two suspects linked to the operation.

The Victim’s Experience

The victim, a software engineer from Madanapalle working in Bengaluru, received a call from an international number on March 22. The caller, identifying as “Edwin,” purported to be a pediatrician based in Texas. Over time, the individual cultivated trust through frequent conversations before introducing the victim to a fabricated investment opportunity.

Scam Execution and Financial Loss

On April 4, the caller claimed to have arrived in India and stated that U.S. customs authorities at Delhi airport had seized $250,000 he was transporting. The victim was allegedly informed that urgent payment of clearance fees was required to retrieve the funds, with a promise of a share of the money in return. Between April 4 and April 15, the software engineer transferred ₹21.37 lakh in multiple installments to accounts provided by the fraudsters.

Investigation and Arrests

After recognizing the deception, the victim filed a complaint, prompting an investigation that utilized digital evidence, banking records, and technical analysis to trace the financial transactions. The probe led to the arrest of two suspects, Surajit Chetia from Assam and Ahotlian Kaipeng from Tripura, near Thattivaripalle Cross on the Madanapalle–Tirupati highway.

Recovery of Illicit Materials

During searches following the arrests, investigators recovered ₹2 lakh in cash, three mobile devices, 57 bank passbooks, 35 ATM cards, and 49 cheque books. The volume of financial instruments suggests the use of multiple accounts to manage illicit transactions.

Expert Insights on Cybercrime Trends

Cybercrime experts highlighted that customs-related scams have grown in prevalence, with perpetrators leveraging international calls, social media, or messaging platforms to establish rapport before presenting fabricated scenarios involving seized assets, inheritance claims, or unclaimed parcels.

Public Safety Recommendations

Law enforcement agencies have advised the public to exercise caution when encountering unsolicited international communications offering financial incentives, foreign currency, or investment opportunities. Individuals are urged not to disclose banking details, passwords, or one-time passwords to unknown parties.

Investigation and Ongoing Efforts

The investigation remains active, with officials tracing the flow of funds and exploring potential links to other cybercrime cases across the country.