On March 15, a doctor in Gandhinagar received a chilling call accusing her of possessing “objectionable content” on her phone. The caller, posing as a telecom official, threatened to disconnect her number and implicate her in a money laundering case—setting off a terrifying chain of events.
A Web of Fake Officials and Fear
Over the next few weeks, the doctor received a barrage of calls from individuals impersonating a sub-inspector, public prosecutor, and other fake officials. They orchestrated a sophisticated “digital arrest,” creating an illusion of legal peril that left the victim psychologically cornered.
₹19 Crore Lost to Cyber Fraud
Under duress, the doctor transferred her entire life savings—₹19 crore—into 35 different bank accounts. The fraudsters even coerced her into taking a loan against her gold jewellery and handing over the proceeds. They monitored her via video calls, demanding constant updates on her location and movements.
Calls Suddenly Stop—But the Damage Is Done
After months of manipulation, the calls abruptly ended. Only then did the woman confide in her relatives, who urged her to approach the authorities. But by then, most of her money was gone.
CID Steps In, Arrests One Suspect
Based on a complaint filed on July 16, Gujarat’s CID Crime unit launched a probe. One individual from Surat has been arrested, with ₹1 crore of the defrauded funds recovered from his account. Authorities believe this is one of India’s largest single-victim digital fraud cases.
The Investigation Continues
Police are now following the digital trail to uncover the entire network. Investigators face a tough task: recovering the scattered funds and bringing all culprits to justice. The scam’s scale underscores how cybercriminals are evolving faster than public awareness.
Takeaway: Stay Vigilant
This case serves as a stark reminder of the emotional and financial toll of digital fraud. Never trust unsolicited calls claiming to be from authorities, and always verify through official channels. As cybercrime becomes more psychological, awareness is the first line of defense.
