Man Arrested at Hyderabad Airport in ₹1.19 Crore Digital Fraud Scandal
Police in Kerala have detained an individual at Hyderabad Airport for a digital fraud scheme targeting an 80-year-old physician, resulting in a loss of ₹1.19 crore.
Overview of the Incident
Police in Kerala have detained an individual at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad following a digital fraud scheme that targeted an 80-year-old physician from Kasaragod, resulting in a loss of ₹1.19 crore. The suspect, identified as Shamsad Choorakuth from Malattur in Malappuram, was apprehended after investigators confirmed his presence overseas and issued a lookout circular.
The Arrest and Investigation
The accused and his associates allegedly deceived the victim by impersonating officials from the Mumbai Crime Branch, pressuring him to transfer funds under false pretenses. The fraudulent activity occurred between November 24 and December 17, 2025, when the victim, a resident of Nileswaram in Kasaragod, received multiple calls and video communications. The perpetrators introduced themselves as members of the Mumbai Crime Branch, asserting that the doctor’s name was linked to an ongoing money-laundering inquiry.
The Scam Tactics and Victim’s Experience
They claimed to have placed him under a digital arrest, creating a sense of urgency and fear. During these interactions, the scammers demanded the transfer of money to specific bank accounts to resolve the fabricated legal issues. Under sustained psychological pressure, the victim transferred ₹1,19,35,000 across multiple accounts. The arrest was facilitated after the victim filed a formal complaint. A cyber police team from Kasaragod traveled to Hyderabad and took the suspect into custody.
Authorities confirmed that the same tactics were employed in this case to manipulate the elderly physician into surrendering his savings.
Conclusion
The case highlights the increasing prevalence of sophisticated fraud techniques targeting vulnerable individuals. Cybercrime units continue to emphasize the importance of public awareness and vigilance against such deceptive practices.
