Posing as NIA officials, scammers subjected victim to psychological captivity via video calls; police warn public about rising cyber threats
Gadag (Karnataka): In a disturbing case of cybercrime, a private doctor from Mulagund town in Gadag district became the latest victim of a “digital arrest” — a rising form of psychological cyber fraud. Dr. S.C. Chavadi was held under digital duress for nearly 22 hours by fraudsters posing as officials from the National Investigation Authority of India.
The incident occurred on June 11, beginning at 3:07 PM, when Dr. Chavadi received a video call from individuals falsely claiming he was implicated in a money laundering case linked to a Canara Bank account. Though the doctor had no connection with the bank, the impersonators claimed an arrest warrant had been issued against him, further alarming him by citing a case filed at Kaloba Police Station, Mumbai.
‘Digital Arrest’: A New Cyber Threat
Police have classified the incident as a “digital arrest”, where victims are psychologically isolated and intimidated through persistent digital engagement. In this case, the scammers conducted a continuous series of video calls to control the doctor’s actions and induce fear.
In a bid to gain credibility, the fraudsters even flashed the name and image of a local police officer from Mulagund, further intensifying the pressure. The scammers warned that Dr. Chavadi was being monitored by a criminal gang allegedly led by a man named Naresh Goyal and advised him to remain silent and cooperative.
On the second day, impersonating a DCP named Dayanayak, one of the fraudsters threatened the doctor with Supreme Court action and suggested that he seek legal aid.
Ordeal Ends With Timely Local Intervention
The nightmare came to an end only when concerned locals noticed something amiss and alerted police. When they reached the doctor’s residence and tried to force open the door, Dr. Chavadi finally unlocked it. At that moment, CPI Sangamesh Shivayogi began interacting with the fraudsters over the ongoing video call — prompting the scammers to immediately disconnect and disappear.
A formal complaint has been registered at the Gadag Cyber Crime Police Station, and a full investigation is underway to trace the culprits.
Police Advisory
CPI Shivayogi issued a strong warning to the public:
“Digital arrest scams are a new and dangerous form of cyber intimidation. Citizens must remain vigilant, never share personal details or documents over suspicious video calls, and immediately report such incidents to the nearest police station.”
