In a major development in the “digital arrest” fraud case involving a 66-year-old yoga teacher from Kandivli West, Mumbai’s North Cyber Police have arrested a key suspect believed to be the final operational link of the racket within India.
The accused, Asad Shaikh (30) from Goregaon East, was arrested last week following an extensive investigation into the fraud network. According to police officials, Shaikh allegedly acted as a “handler” for a cyber fraud syndicate that targeted victims through online deception.
Investigators stated that Shaikh played a critical role in managing operational activities for the gang. Authorities believe that beyond his level, the money trail and the command structure extend outside India, suggesting the involvement of an international cybercrime network. Police have launched efforts to identify and trace the overseas operatives connected to the racket.
During the probe, Shaikh reportedly claimed that he was involved in an export-import business. However, investigators suspect that since 2020 he had been collaborating with cyber fraud groups, providing logistical and operational support to facilitate online cheating schemes across the country.
Several bank accounts linked to Shaikh are currently under scrutiny. Police are examining these accounts to determine the total amount of money siphoned off through the fraud and to identify additional victims who may have been targeted by the network.
Officials said the investigation remains ongoing, and further revelations are expected as authorities analyze financial transactions and possible international connections tied to the cyber fraud syndicate.
