The Central Bureau of Investigation conducted multi‑state raids and arrested suspects tied to a ‘digital arrest’ extortion scheme that coerced victims into transferring funds by impersonating officials. Forensics uncovered mule bank accounts and SIM‑card networks used to launder proceeds; authorities seized devices and financial records during the ongoing investigation.

On Feb. 25–26, 2026 India’s Central Bureau of Investigation executed coordinated raids across multiple states and arrested individuals allegedly involved in a sophisticated “digital arrest” scam that terrorized victims into transferring money. The operation reportedly used impersonation of police and judicial officers, falsified online warrants and threatening communications to induce compliance. CBI forensic teams say they uncovered extensive networks of mule bank accounts, prepaid SIM‑card chains and controlled phone numbers used to receive, route and withdraw illicit funds. Investigators seized mobile devices, servers, financial statements and transaction logs to map account linkages and identify money‑mule operators. Arrested suspects face charges related to criminal intimidation, fraud and money‑laundering as the agency continues to trace proceeds and freeze implicated accounts. Officials emphasized victim support measures and cautioned the public against complying with coercive online summons, urging verification with local authorities; the probe aims to dismantle both the technical infrastructure and the financial conduits that enabled the trans‑state extortion ring.