Delhi Couple Duped of ₹14 Crore in ‘Digital Arrest’ Scam
Cybercriminals duped an elderly doctor couple from south Delhi’s Greater Kailash of nearly ₹14 crore by keeping them under a fake “digital arrest” for more than two weeks. Police said the fraud took place between December 24 and January 9. During this period, the accused posed as law enforcement officials and forced the couple to transfer money to several bank accounts. The scam surfaced on January 9 after the calls suddenly stopped. The victims then approached Delhi Police, who registered an e-FIR and launched a cybercrime probe.
Fake TRAI Call Triggered the Ordeal
Victim Indira Taneja said the scam began with a call claiming to be from the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI). The caller warned that her mobile number would be disconnected due to obscene calls. Soon after, the fraudsters accused her of money laundering. They claimed police had issued arrest warrants in Maharashtra. The accused then switched to a video call. A man wearing a police uniform appeared on screen. Banners reading “Colaba Police” were visible behind him, which made the setup appear genuine.
‘National Security’ Threats Forced Compliance
The fraudsters told Taneja that a Canara Bank account in her name featured in a major case linked to national security. They threatened immediate arrest and demanded full cooperation. When she explained that her husband was recovering from surgery at AIIMS, the accused offered another option. They said they would keep her under “verification,” similar to bail. During this phase, the callers forced the couple to stay on constant phone and video calls. They also warned them not to contact anyone.
Police Trace Money Trail After Calls End
Police said the couple, both doctors, returned from the United States and have lived in Greater Kailash since 2016. Their children live abroad, which the criminals exploited. Despite repeated pleas about medical issues, the pressure continued. The couple eventually transferred ₹14.85 crore. The fraud came to light only after the calls ended abruptly on January 9. Delhi Police said teams are tracking bank accounts and suspects linked to the scam. Zoom Chronicle urges citizens to stay alert and report calls claiming links to police, banks, or national security.
