Bengaluru Couple Loses Rs 4.75 Crore in Elaborate Cybercrime Scam Linked to International Network

Bengaluru, June 11, 2025: In a chilling case of cyber fraud, a retired engineer and his wife from Bengaluru have lost Rs 4.75 crore to a sophisticated international cybercrime network. The couple, residents of BTM Layout, were subjected to a “digital arrest” by fraudsters posing as officials from the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the Enforcement Directorate (ED). The scammers accused them of money laundering, manipulating them into transferring large sums over several months.

The Scam: A Tale of Deception

The victims, a 75-year-old retired engineer and his wife, who previously worked as engineers in Nigeria, were first contacted by the fraudsters in March 2025. The scammers, impersonating high-ranking CBI and ED officials, claimed the couple’s bank accounts were linked to money laundering cases. Under the pretext of a “digital arrest,” they were instructed to transfer funds to various accounts to comply with alleged legal procedures. Fearing arrest and imprisonment in Tihar Jail, the couple complied, transferring Rs 4.75 crore through NEFT and RTGS over three months.

The fraudsters escalated their manipulation by demanding property documents, which they attempted to use as collateral for personal loans. The couple, unaware of the scam, did not inform their two children, likely due to the fear and pressure exerted by the scammers. This prolonged deception highlights the psychological tactics used in such cybercrimes, preying on victims’ trust in authority and fear of legal repercussions.

Police Breakthrough: Unraveling the Network

The case came to light when Chennai’s cybercrime unit, investigating an unrelated matter, alerted Bengaluru police about a potential victim in the city. The Southeast Cyber, Economic and Narcotics (CEN) division traced Rs 10 lakh of the defrauded amount to a Hyderabad bank account belonging to the tenant of Eshwar Singh, a Hyderabad-based businessman and avid casino-goer.

Singh was detained at Hyderabad airport upon returning from Sri Lanka and brought to Bengaluru for questioning. He initially claimed the funds were legitimate casino refunds. Investigations revealed Singh had visited a Sri Lankan casino 33 times in recent months, purchasing Rs 25 lakh worth of casino coupons and losing Rs 15 lakh in gambling. Due to tax filing irregularities, he had requested the casino to transfer the remaining funds to his tenant’s account. The police suspect the cybercriminals directed the couple to transfer funds to this same account, exploiting Singh’s financial arrangements.

A second suspect, Ramnarayan Chowdhary, a Hyderabad businessman running a departmental store, was also arrested. Investigators found that cybercriminals had befriended Chowdhary through regular purchases at his store, later using his accounts to launder money. Chowdhary’s account received Rs 1.8 crore, which was subsequently transferred to accounts in Guntur and Visakhapatnam. Both Singh and Chowdhary claimed ignorance of the funds’ illicit origins.

International Connections: A Casino Link?

The investigation has taken an international turn, with police probing potential links between the Sri Lankan casino and a broader cybercrime network, possibly extending to Cambodia. The casino’s role in facilitating money laundering is under scrutiny, given Singh’s frequent visits and the unusual transfer of funds to his tenant’s account. Authorities are exploring whether the casino knowingly or unknowingly aided the cybercriminals.

Police Actions and Public Advisory

The Bengaluru police have recovered the defrauded funds from Singh’s and Chowdhary’s accounts and returned them to the couple. The investigation continues, with authorities collaborating with Chennai and Hyderabad police to dismantle the cybercrime network. Sarah Fathima, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP), Bengaluru Southeast, emphasized the need for public vigilance.

“These scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated, using intimidation to exploit victims,” said DCP Fathima. “Never share bank details or personal information with unsolicited callers claiming to be government officials. Always verify through official channels.”

The police have issued a public advisory, urging citizens to report suspicious calls or messages. They are also investigating other potential victims targeted by the same network across India.

Background: The Rise of “Digital Arrest” Scams

“Digital arrest” scams are an emerging threat in India, where fraudsters impersonate law enforcement officials to intimidate victims. By leveraging fear of legal consequences, scammers coerce individuals into transferring money or sharing sensitive information. Senior citizens, like the Bengaluru couple, are particularly vulnerable due to their trust in authority and limited familiarity with cyber threats.

This case underscores the growing complexity of cybercrimes, which often involve cross-border networks and money laundering schemes. The involvement of a Sri Lankan casino adds a new dimension, raising questions about the role of international entities in facilitating such frauds.

Ongoing Investigation and Future Steps

The Bengaluru police are working to uncover the full extent of the cybercrime network, with a focus on its international connections. The Sri Lankan casino’s potential role in money laundering is a key investigative thread, alongside possible operations in Cambodia. Authorities are also examining whether other victims have been targeted similarly.

“This is a complex case with international ramifications,” said a senior police officer. “We are committed to tracing every lead to bring the masterminds to justice.”

The case serves as a stark reminder of the need for cyber awareness, particularly among vulnerable groups. As investigations continue, the police hope to disrupt this sophisticated network and prevent further victimization.