Barpeta Man Arrested in ₹1,173-Crore Cyber Fraud Probe, 10 ‘Digital Arrest’ Victims Rescued

BARPETA: A 25-year-old man from Assam’s Barpeta district, identified as Rafikul Alam, has been arrested by Gujarat’s Cyber Centre of Excellence (CCoE) in connection with an alleged nationwide cyber fraud network linked to suspected fraud of around ₹1,173 crore. Investigators said the probe has so far connected 1,753 bank accounts with 1,042 cybercrime cases. Electronic devices and other technical equipment were also seized during the operation.

The investigation also helped authorities identify and intervene in 10 ongoing “digital arrest” scams across several states, including cases involving senior citizens who were allegedly preparing to transfer more money after being threatened by fraudsters posing as government officials. Gujarat authorities said some victims had reportedly withdrawn fixed deposits or considered selling property to meet the demands. Preliminary findings have also indicated an alleged connection between Alam and a China-linked cybercrime network involving cryptocurrency transactions. Further investigation is underway.