A shocking cybercrime incident has surfaced in Delhi, where fraudsters cheated an elderly NRI doctor couple of Rs 14.85 crore. By creating fear and impersonating officials, the criminals executed one of the most disturbing “digital arrest” scams reported so far.
Victims With a Distinguished Background
Dr. Om Taneja and Dr. Indira Taneja reside in the Greater Kailash area of Delhi. Both served the United Nations for nearly 48 years. After retiring in 2015, they returned to India and settled permanently in the capital.
How the Fraud Unfolded
The ordeal began on December 24 when the couple received a call from unknown persons. Initially, the callers introduced themselves as telecom officials. Soon after, they posed as police officers and accused the couple of involvement in money laundering cases.
As a result, the elderly doctors panicked. The fraudsters then claimed that arrest warrants had already been issued. This threat pushed the couple into severe psychological distress.
Fear Through ‘Digital Arrest’
To maintain control, the criminals placed the couple under what they called a “digital arrest.” During this period, they forced them to stay indoors. Meanwhile, the scammers monitored them continuously through video calls for nearly 17 days.
Moreover, the criminals pretended to be officials from the RBI and the Supreme Court. They showed fake documents on video calls to strengthen their claims. Consequently, the couple believed the case was genuine.
Money Transferred Under Pressure
Under constant fear, the fraudsters assured the couple that transferring money would resolve the case. Therefore, Dr. Indira Taneja visited multiple banks as instructed. She transferred funds in installments to eight different accounts.
In total, the couple lost Rs 14.85 crore. The transfers took place over several days without raising suspicion at first.
Scam Comes to Light
Finally, on January 10, the scammers abruptly ended all communication. They told the couple that the RBI would return the money soon. They also advised them to visit the nearest police station.
However, when the couple reached the police station, officials confirmed the fraud. Only then did they realize they had fallen victim to a cybercrime.
Police Action and Public Warning
Following the complaint, Delhi Police registered an e-FIR. Subsequently, authorities transferred the case to the Special Cyber Crime Unit (IFSO). Police teams are now tracing the accused and tracking the money trail.
Meanwhile, officials have issued a public warning. They clarified that no agency conducts arrests through phone or video calls. Citizens were urged to report suspicious calls immediately to cybercrime authorities.
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