Fraudsters tricked the MLA using fake CBI documents and forged arrest warrants.
Yadav made nine transfers between Oct 10–15, fearing arrest and public shame.
Police suspect a nationwide cybercrime network behind similar digital arrest scams.
In a recent case of digital arrest scam, Telugu Desam Party (TDP) MLA Putta Sudhakar Yadav has lost Rs 1.07 crore to fraudsters posing as Mumbai cybercrime officials. The 61-year-old legislator from YSR Kadapa district was duped into believing he was under investigation for money laundering and human trafficking, prompting him to transfer the amount in fear of arrest.
SurveyThe ordeal began on October 10, when Yadav received a call from someone claiming to be “Gaurav Shukla”, a Mumbai cybercrime officer. The caller alleged that Yadav’s Aadhaar and SIM were misused to open a bank account linked to illegal transactions.
Soon after, another person, identifying himself as “Vikram”, joined a WhatsApp video call, posing as an investigating officer. He displayed fake CBI documents, forged arrest warrants, and even photos of a fictitious accused to add credibility.
Under intense pressure and fearing public embarrassment, Yadav transferred Rs 1.07 crore across nine transactions between October 10 and 15. The fraud came to light only when the scammers demanded another Rs 60 lakh for a “court-clearance certificate.”
Yadav filed a complaint with the Hyderabad Cyber Crime Police on October 15, leading to a case being registered under the Information Technology Act and relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for cheating, forgery, impersonation, and organised cybercrime.
Authorities suspect a pan-India network behind the operation, similar to several digital-arrest scams reported across Mumbai, Delhi, and Hyderabad in recent months.
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How to stay safe
- Verify all calls claiming to be from police or government officials, contact the department directly.
- Never transfer money under pressure or based on threats of arrest or investigation.
- Report suspicious activity immediately via the national cybercrime helpline (1930) or cybercrime.gov.in.
- Monitor your Aadhaar, bank accounts, and SIM cards regularly to detect misuse early.
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Himani Jha
Himani Jha is a tech news writer at Digit. Passionate about smartphones and consumer technology, she has contributed to leading publications such as Times Network, Gadgets 360, and Hindustan Times Tech for the past five years. When not immersed in gadgets, she enjoys exploring the vibrant culinary scene, discovering new cafes and restaurants, and indulging in her love for fine literature and timeless music. View Full Profile
