Bihar: Digital arrest scam busted in Muzaffarpur; three arrested

Patna, May 1 In a major breakthrough against cybercrime, the Cyber Police Station in Muzaffarpur has dismantled an organised gang involved in defrauding victims through the so-called “digital arrest” scam.

The action was initiated following a written complaint by a senior citizen who was cheated of Rs 17 lakh through intimidation and psychological pressure.

The victim, Bhola Prasad Mahto (73), a resident of Mushahari, reported that from April 5, 2026, he received multiple video calls from individuals posing as police and Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) officers.

The fraudsters allegedly threatened him with a “digital arrest”, creating fear and mental distress.

Under pressure, the victim transferred Rs 17 lakh via RTGS on April 10 to a bank account held by Brajesh Kumar at a Federal Bank branch in Bhagwanpur.

He realised he had been duped on April 13 and promptly reported the matter to his bank and the national cybercrime helpline (1930).

Taking the complaint seriously, police registered Case No. 58/26 and formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) under the direction of senior officials.

Through technical surveillance, call detail analysis and scrutiny of bank transactions, three accused were arrested. They have been identified as Brajesh Kumar, Krishna Kumar and Vikram Kumar.

The arrests mark a significant step in cracking down on emerging cyber fraud tactics.

During the operation, police recovered mobile phones, chequebooks, passbooks and debit cards from their possession.

Preliminary investigation revealed that the bank accounts used in this case were linked to multiple cyber fraud incidents across the country, indicating a wider network.

Police suspect that the gang operates at an inter-state level and has been targeting victims using evolving scam techniques such as “digital arrest”.

Continuous raids are underway to apprehend other members who remain absconding.

Authorities have urged citizens to remain alert and cautious. People have been advised not to trust unsolicited calls or video calls from individuals claiming to be police, the CBI or other officials.

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