Background and Timeline: On March 25, 2026, the Delhi Police announced the results of a month-long operation against multiple interstate syndicates. The investigation unearthered swindling of around ₹10.6 crore related to 89 distinct complaints registered on the NCRP portal. This phase of enforcement targeted organized modules involved in digital arrest, fake IPOs, and online trading scams.
Modus Operandi: The accused used fake identities of law enforcement agencies and invoked fear through video calls and forged warrants. In a “digital arrest” case, an elderly couple was extorted for nearly a week after being told their SIM was linked to crime. In a fake IPO module, fraudsters used a fraudulent mobile application to deceive victims into investing in non-existent stock listings with the promise of guaranteed high returns.
Victims and Financial Impact: The total impact of the busted modules is approximately ₹10.6 crore, primarily targeting elderly citizens and urban investors. In one digital arrest case, victims were coerced into transferring ₹20 lakh, while a fake IPO scheme saw another victim lose ₹7.79 lakh. Swift police action led to a 100% recovery of ₹8 lakh in another case, showing the potential for restitution if reported in the golden hour.
Investigation and Agencies Involved: DCP Hareshwar V Swami (Outer North) led the task force, conducting multiple raids across Jharkhand, Uttarakhand, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Delhi, and UP. Investigators traced money trails to a bank account in Ranchi and identified mule accounts used to hide the proceeds. Around ₹19 lakh has been recovered so far and returned to victims through court orders.
Arrests and Suspects: Six suspects have been arrested, including Shashikant Kumar (from Ranchi), Khalid Tyagi (from Roorkee), and Sachin Mittal (from Delhi). Three other accused—Asif, Nitin Saini, and Virender Mukkhiya—were apprehended for threats involving alleged SIM misuse. Khalid Tyagi was notably arrested while attempting to flee abroad to evade the investigation.
Broader Implications and Trends: The operation highlights the reliance of cyber-syndicates on interstate networks of intermediaries to move funds through multiple mule accounts. It underscores the danger of “fear-based” social engineering targeting the elderly. The successful 100% recovery in one case reinforces the effectiveness of the I4C portal and rapid inter-bank coordination.