Hyderabad senior citizen loses ₹26 lakh in digital arrest scam

HYDERABAD: A 68-year-old resident of Humayun Nagar was cheated of ₹26 lakh by fraudsters posing as officials of the Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS), National Investigation Agency (NIA) and even the Director General of Police.

The victim first received a call alleging links to money laundering and the Pahalgam terror attack in Kashmir. During WhatsApp video calls, the accused displayed forged arrest warrants and fabricated documents to threaten him with arrest.

Fixed deposits closed under threat

Under pressure, the senior citizen prematurely closed fixed deposits and transferred ₹6 lakh from his accounts in Kotak Mahindra Bank and RBL Bank. Later, he transferred ₹20 lakh from his wife’s account to an account in the name of “Hentry Jones.”

Fraudsters also sent forged Reserve Bank of India letters to lend credibility to their threats. They warned the victim not to disclose the matter to anyone. The incident came to light only after his family grew suspicious. He then reported the case to the Cyber Crime Helpline (1930).

Police issue public advisory

Police clarified that there is no such thing as a “digital arrest.” Law enforcement agencies never demand money to clear names or issue certificates.

“Fraudsters are impersonating NIA, ATS and senior police officers to threaten citizens with false allegations of terrorism and money laundering. They use caller ID spoofing, WhatsApp video calls and forged documents like arrest warrants and RBI letters,” officials said.

Authorities urged citizens to stay calm, disconnect such calls, avoid sharing personal or financial details, and verify any such claims with local police or official helplines. In case of financial fraud, citizens can immediately call 1930 or report at www.cybercrime.gov.in.