Kadapa (AP), November 15, 2025:
In a major breakthrough, Pulivendula police have arrested 12 cyber fraudsters involved in extorting money from citizens by threatening them with a fake “digital arrest.” The gang had been targeting victims across multiple states, making this a significant achievement for the Kadapa district police.
Kadapa SP Shelke Nachiketh Vishwanath revealed the details of the arrests during a press briefing held on Friday.
Retired MEO Falls Victim to Fake Digital Arrest Threat
The investigation began after cybercriminals cheated Veerareddy, a retired MEO from Vempalle, nearly seven months ago.
The fraudsters contacted him through a *video call, claiming that a SIM card registered in his name was being used for *human trafficking in Delhi.
To make their threat look real, they sent him fake Supreme Court documents on WhatsApp. They then claimed that he would be placed under digital arrest and demanded money to “temporarily stop” the legal action.
Fearing the consequences, Veerareddy transferred money multiple times.
The gang managed to collect lakhs of rupees from him over several months.
Police Track Gang and Conduct Swift Operation
After receiving Veerareddy’s complaint, the police registered a case and launched a detailed investigation.
During the probe, officials learned that the accused gang members had come to Vempalle again to collect more money from the victim. Acting swiftly, a special team led by the Pulivendula DSP moved to the location and arrested all 12 members of the interstate cyber gang on Friday.
Growing Threat of Digital Arrest Scams
Police officials stated that “digital arrest” scams have become a rising threat across the country. Fraudsters often pose as police officers, CBI agents, or court officials and use fear tactics to extort money from unsuspecting citizens.
Authorities have urged people to avoid responding to suspicious video calls and to report any such incidents to cybercrime helplines immediately.