A major cyber fraud case involving a so-called digital arrest scam has surfaced, linking Tamil Nadu to Madhya Pradesh, where police have arrested three individuals for facilitating the illegal transfer of funds through a mule bank account. The case highlights the growing scale of organized cybercrime networks operating across multiple states in India.

Victim targeted through digital arrest scam

The incident originated in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, where a resident identified as KC Sridhar fell victim to an elaborate online fraud. The scammers allegedly posed as officials and manipulated the victim into believing he was under digital arrest, a tactic increasingly used to create fear and urgency. Under this pressure, the victim was coerced into transferring a total amount of Rs 67,75,301.

Fraud money traced to Ratlam bank account

During the investigation, authorities tracked a portion of the defrauded amount to a bank account in Ratlam, Madhya Pradesh. According to police findings, Rs 47,75,301 was deposited into an account held with a private bank. This discovery confirmed the involvement of an interstate cybercrime network using layered financial channels to conceal transactions.

Police identify mule account operations

Further inquiry revealed that the Ratlam-based account was being used as a mule account. Such accounts are typically opened or operated by individuals who allow criminals to route illegal funds through their banking systems in exchange for commissions. This practice helps fraudsters obscure the origin and movement of money.

Three accused arrested in Ratlam

Ratlam police acted swiftly after receiving inputs through national cybercrime coordination platforms. The account holder, a 23-year-old man named Pratham Mittal, was taken into custody. During interrogation, he admitted that he had opened and provided access to his account at the behest of two associates.

Based on his statement, police arrested Hemant Rayak, also known as Monu, and Shubham Reda, both residents of Ratlam. Investigators confirmed that all three were aware of the illegal nature of the transactions and were motivated by financial incentives.

Case registered under legal provisions

Authorities have registered a case under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, specifically dealing with financial fraud and cheating. The police are continuing their probe to identify other members of the network and establish links with similar cybercrime operations across states.

How mule accounts enable cybercrime

Mule accounts play a crucial role in cyber fraud schemes by acting as temporary holding points for stolen money. Criminals often recruit individuals through offers of easy money, convincing them to share banking credentials or open accounts. These accounts are then used to transfer funds rapidly, making it difficult for law enforcement agencies to trace the money trail.

Police advisory and public warning

Officials have urged citizens to remain cautious of unsolicited calls, especially those involving threats of legal action or claims of digital arrest. People are advised not to share personal or banking details with unknown individuals and to avoid opening accounts on behalf of others for monetary benefits.

In case of suspected cyber fraud, victims are encouraged to immediately contact the national helpline 1930 or report the incident on the official cybercrime portal. Authorities have emphasized that timely reporting can significantly improve the chances of recovering stolen funds.