Hyderabad: Senior citizen loses Rs 9.55 lakh in digital arrest scam

Hyderabad: An 89-year-old retired resident of Hyderabad fell prey to a digital scam and lost Rs 9.55 lakh to a fraudster posing as a police officer. According to reports, the fraudster contacted the elderly man via WhatsApp claiming to be from the Mumbai Police and alleged that his name was involved in a money laundering case with Canara Bank in Mumbai. During the video call, the fraudster, who appeared in police uniform, threatened the victim by saying that an FIR has been filed against him and he could be jailed if he did not cooperate.

He further claimed that the victim was under surveillance and warned him not to tell anyone. The fraudster then allegedly sent a forged document signed by the Chief Justice of India, claiming that the court had authorised the security deposit. Under pressure, the victim transferred Rs 9.55 lakh via RTGS. After the payment, the fraudster demanded more funds, suggesting the victim to borrow money from friends or lenders. Realising that he had been cheated, the victim approached the authorities to take action against the fraudster.