Dehradun Elderly Couple Scammed ₹45.87 Lakh in 50-Day Online Fraud Case

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A retired couple in Dehradun reportedly lost ₹45.87 lakh following a 50-day digital fraud operation involving false allegations of criminal activity.

How Did the Fraud Begin?

The victims, residents of Premnagar, were targeted by individuals claiming to represent the Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) and the Maharashtra Crime Branch. On August 16, the husband received a call from an unidentified individual who falsely identified as an ATS officer based in Mumbai. A second caller introduced themselves as Sub-Inspector Ranjit Kumar. The fraudsters alleged that the victim’s mobile number was linked to a terrorist incident, initiating the deception.

How Were the Couple Threatened?

The perpetrators interrogated the couple about their family members, particularly their son who resided overseas. They subsequently issued threats against the son’s safety, asserting that the couple was under investigation. Over the 50-day period, the fraudsters maintained contact through phone calls and video conferences, escalating intimidation tactics to coerce compliance.

How Was ₹45.87 Lakh Taken?

The fraudsters directed the couple to transfer their savings into designated bank accounts, claiming the funds needed to be scrutinized as part of an official inquiry. They assured the victims that the money would be returned after verification. Believing these assertions, the couple executed multiple transfers totaling ₹45.87 lakh. The scam was uncovered when the couple’s daughter visited their residence and discovered the fraudulent activity.

What Action Have Police Taken?

Following the revelation, a formal complaint was filed with local authorities. A case has been registered, though no further details about investigative progress have been disclosed.

The case highlights the increasing sophistication of digital fraud schemes, where prolonged psychological manipulation is used to justify financial exploitation. Victims are often misled into transferring assets under the guise of legal compliance. Authorities continue to emphasize vigilance against unsolicited communications requesting financial transactions under false pretenses.