The Cyber Crime and Economic Offence wing of Bhubaneswar Commissionerate Police has arrested G Chiranjeevi, a resident of Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh, in connection with a high-profile “digital arrest” scam that defrauded a local woman of Rs 30 lakh. Authorities say this case highlights the ongoing threat of inter-state cyber fraud networks exploiting citizens through impersonation and intimidation.
Police recovered two mobile phones, an ATM card, a cheque book, a PAN card, and an Aadhaar card from Chiranjeevi. He is believed to be a key member of a larger syndicate involved in similar crimes.
According to investigators, the victim, residing in Lingaraj Gauri Nagar, received a call on November 6, 2025, from an unknown number. The caller impersonated an official from the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI), falsely claiming her SIM card was linked to criminal activities. The call was then transferred to someone claiming to be from Mumbai’s Colaba police station.
In a sophisticated ruse, the scammers placed the victim on a video call showing forged documents resembling an arrest warrant. Threats escalated with claims that the matter would be handed to the Enforcement Directorate (ED), warning of immediate arrest and severe legal consequences unless she complied.
The perpetrators used a tactic known as “digital arrest”, keeping victims isolated on prolonged calls or video sessions, preventing them from consulting family, friends, or local authorities. They relied on official jargon, a sense of urgency, and intimidation to manipulate the victim.
Police say the investigation is ongoing to identify other members of the syndicate and prevent further cyber fraud cases.
