CBI Raids 80 Locations Nationwide Over Digital Arrest Scams

The Central Bureau of Investigation launched a massive nationwide crackdown against cybercriminals operating widespread “Digital Arrest” fraud networks. Elite federal agents executed coordinated raids across dozens of locations, arresting two key suspects implicated in running a complex financial infrastructure that laundered illicit proceeds through fraudulent bank accounts.

Image used for representation | Photo Credit: Reuters

In a major crackdown on the cybercrime infrastructure facilitating Digital Arrest scams, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has raided over 80 locations across the country in connection with more than 200 cases. Two accused have been arrested so far.

They have been identified as Naresh from Chennai and Sanjib Saha, a resident of Kolkata.

Under Operation Chakra-VI, the agency constituted 60 special teams and conducted coordinated searches in 16 States, including Punjab, Gujarat, Delhi, Maharashtra, Haryana, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Assam, West Bengal, Manipur, Karnataka and Odisha.

“The searches were carried out as part of an ongoing investigation aimed at dismantling a targeted operational network involved in over 200 cases of Digital Arrest scams,” said the agency.

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The arrested accused were involved in the incorporation of shell companies and the opening and operation of mule bank accounts. These accounts were reportedly used for laundering about ₹2 crore of suspected proceeds of crime.

The CBI recently unearthed a fraudulent website bearing a URL deceptively similar to the official website of the Supreme Court of India. The fraudsters allegedly used the registered domain to deceive victims through Digital Arrest modus operandi. Based on a complaint received from the Registry of the Supreme Court, the agency registered a case and launched an investigation.

“Leveraging advanced forensic tools and technical expertise, the CBI identified critical elements of the criminal infrastructure operating both within India and abroad. Investigation has revealed that the perpetrators uploaded forged documents, including fake orders resembling those issued by courts and various law enforcement agencies, to lend credibility to their fraudulent activities,” it said.

During the searches, the CBI has seized several incriminating documents, digital devices, mobile phones and records relating to bank transactions.

The CBI also found evidence indicating that, in addition to Indian citizens, nationals of several other countries may have been cheated by the same network. The law enforcement agencies of the jurisdictions concerned are being alerted through appropriate channels.

Published – June 25, 2026 11:19 am IST

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Historical Context

The “Digital Arrest” phenomenon has rapidly evolved into one of the most prominent cyber threats in India’s financial sector. Fraudsters typically pose as federal police, customs officials, or tax authorities, convincing victims via video calls that they are under state surveillance for illegal packages or money laundering.

Operation Chakra-VI marks an aggressive escalation by federal authorities to systematically dismantle the underlying banking networks and shell corporations that absorb these extorted funds.

FAQs

What is a Digital Arrest scam?

A Digital Arrest scam is a cyber fraud method where criminals pose as law enforcement officials over video calls, falsely claiming the victim is under investigation. They coerce the victim into staying online under visual “arrest” while demanding money to clear their name.

What was the scale of CBI’s Operation Chakra-VI?

The federal agency deployed 60 specialized teams to raid over 80 locations across 16 different Indian states, targeting a cyber network linked to more than 200 individual fraud cases.

How much money did this cybercrime network launder?

Investigating officers revealed that the network utilized a web of shell companies and mule accounts to launder approximately ₹2 crore in stolen criminal proceeds.

Did the fraudsters target victims outside of India?

Yes, the investigation uncovered evidence showing that citizens from several foreign countries fell victim to this specific network. The CBI is alerting international law enforcement partners through official channels.