Retired Mumbai Cop Loses ₹19 Lakh to Fake NIA Scam

A 61-year-old retired police sub-inspector from Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar has fallen prey to a digital arrest scam, losing ₹19 lakh. The scammers, claiming to be National Investigation Agency (NIA) officials, told the victim that his links to a terrorist organisation had been found during a probe.

The victim received a phone call from a person claiming to be from the Data Protection Board of India (DPBI) office in Mumbai, stating that a sim card had been issued in his name for criminal activities. Later, he received a video call from a person claiming to be from NIA's Mumbai office, who told him that his links to a terrorist organisation had surfaced during a money laundering probe.

The scammers sent bogus documents to the victim, placing him under a digital arrest, and induced him to transfer ₹19 lakh in two online transactions to different beneficiary bank accounts. They claimed this would help him in the 'case'. The scammers were aware that the victim was a retired policeman and used this information to threaten him with arrest.

The victim later narrated his ordeal to a friend, who advised him to lodge a police complaint. A case has been registered under sections 308 (extortion), 318 (cheating) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and sections 66C (identity theft), 66D (cheating by personation by using computer resource) of the Information Technology Act.

This incident highlights the increasing number of digital scams targeting individuals, including retired police officers. The scammers use fear and intimidation to extract money from their victims. The police have warned citizens to be cautious of such scams and to verify the authenticity of calls and messages before taking any action.

The victim's loss of ₹19 lakh is a significant amount, and it is essential for individuals to be aware of such scams to avoid falling prey. The police are investigating the matter and are working to catch the scammers.

In recent times, there has been a rise in digital scams, and it is crucial for citizens to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the authorities. The police are taking measures to prevent such scams and to educate the public on how to avoid falling prey to them.

The incident serves as a reminder for individuals to be cautious when receiving calls or messages from unknown numbers, especially those claiming to be from government agencies. It is essential to verify the authenticity of such calls and messages before taking any action.

The police are urging citizens to report any suspicious activity to the authorities and to be aware of the increasing number of digital scams. By being vigilant and taking necessary precautions, individuals can avoid falling prey to such scams and protect their hard-earned money.

In conclusion, the incident of the retired police sub-inspector losing ₹19 lakh to a digital arrest scam is a significant one, and it highlights the need for individuals to be aware of such scams and to take necessary precautions to avoid falling prey. The police are working to prevent such scams and to educate the public on how to avoid them.