The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has achieved a major breakthrough in its investigation into a high-profile digital arrest scam and associated money laundering activities involving prominent Ludhiana industrialist S P Oswal.
On Friday, the ED announced the arrest of Arpit Rathore, who is alleged to be a key operative behind the digital arrest scheme and other related cybercrimes. Rathore was apprehended on December 31 during a raid in Kanpur, which resulted in the seizure of multiple digital devices and Rs14 lakh in cash. A Jalandhar court has extended his custody until January 5.
The arrest follows the earlier detention of Rumi Kalita from Assam on December 23. Both accused are currently in ED custody as investigations continue.
The case originated from a police FIR registered in Ludhiana, which detailed how S P Oswal was allegedly duped of Rs7 crore by fraudsters impersonating Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) officers. The accused allegedly used the threat of arrest to extort money, a method commonly referred to as a digital arrest scam.
According to the ED, Rathore played a crucial role in facilitating money laundering operations, coordinating with foreign associates to siphon off illicit funds abroad using mule bank accounts and cryptocurrency channels.
Authorities have warned the public to remain cautious of digital arrest scams, where criminals pose as law enforcement or central agencies to intimidate victims into transferring money. Citizens encountering such calls are advised to immediately inform the police and contact the national cybercrime helpline.
The ED stated that the syndicate under investigation has allegedly defrauded other victims of Rs1.73 crore through similar fraudulent schemes. Further probes are underway to identify additional members and trace the money trail.
