A 72-year-old retired officer from Tilakwadi in Belagavi was allegedly duped of ₹42.40 lakh by cybercriminals who threatened him with arrest, claiming that his mobile number had been used to circulate objectionable videos and his bank account was linked to money laundering.
The fraud reportedly took place between October 3 and 9 under the guise of a ‘digital arrest’. The victim was allegedly coerced into transferring money to multiple bank accounts.
According to the police complaint, the scam began on October 3, when the victim received a call on his mobile phone. After initially obtaining details about his family members, the caller initiated a WhatsApp video call.
The caller identified himself as Vijay Kanha, an IPS officer, and falsely claimed to be associated with the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). He allegedly intimidated the retired officer by accusing him of involvement in serious criminal activities.
Believing the threats and fearing the consequences, the victim was allegedly manipulated into transferring a total of ₹42.40 lakh to different bank accounts.
A complaint has been registered with the Cyber Crime, Economic Offences and Narcotics (CEN) Police of Belagavi city.