In one of the country’s biggest ‘digital arrest’ fraud cases, the Maharashtra Cyber Police have achieved a major breakthrough by securing the first recovery of ₹2 crore for the victim. The police have also announced a reward of ₹3 lakh for information leading to the arrest of the prime accused and alleged mastermind, Devendra Saini.
Recently, a person was allegedly duped of a staggering ₹58.13 crore by fraudsters using the modus operandi of so-called ‘digital arrest’. Following the complaint, the Maharashtra Cyber Department registered a case and initiated an extensive investigation into the high-value cyber fraud.
As part of the probe, the Maharashtra Cyber Police coordinated closely with financial institutions and judicial authorities to track and freeze the siphoned funds. Acting on court orders, ₹2 crore was returned to the victim, marking the first major recovery in the case. Police officials said this is a significant step towards restituting the defrauded amount.
In addition, properties and assets belonging to the arrested accused have been frozen, and the process to seize them is currently underway. Further recoveries are expected as the investigation progresses.
Meanwhile, Devendra Saini, identified as the key link and main conspirator in the scam, remains absconding. To expedite his arrest, the cyber police have announced a reward of ₹3 lakh for anyone providing credible information about his whereabouts.
“Our primary objective is to trace the offenders and ensure that the victims get their money back. The remaining accused in this case will also be arrested soon,” the Maharashtra Cyber Department said in a statement.