CBI raids 80+ locations across India in major crackdown on ‘Digital Arrest’ scams

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has launched a nationwide crackdown on cybercrime networks involved in so-called “digital arrest” scams, conducting coordinated searches at more than 80 locations across 16 states under Operation Chakra-VI.

According to officials, over 60 special teams were deployed across states including Delhi, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Karnataka, Assam and Odisha. The operation is aimed at dismantling organised networks allegedly linked to more than 200 cases of digital arrest fraud.

Investigators arrested two individuals from Chennai and Kolkata for their alleged role in creating shell companies and operating mule bank accounts used to launder proceeds of cyber fraud. The CBI said the accounts were allegedly used to route around ₹2 crore obtained through fraudulent activities.

The agency is also probing the use of fake websites and digital platforms that impersonate government institutions and law enforcement agencies to intimidate victims into transferring money. In one case, investigators uncovered a fraudulent website designed to resemble the official website of the Supreme Court.

“Digital arrest” scams typically involve fraudsters posing as police officers, CBI officials, customs authorities or other government representatives. Victims are falsely told they are under investigation and pressured through video calls and threats into transferring money or revealing sensitive financial information.

The latest operation forms part of a broader nationwide effort to curb cyber-enabled financial crimes and dismantle the infrastructure supporting online fraud networks. Investigations are ongoing, and further arrests are expected.