The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) arrested two people after carrying out searches at more than 80 locations across 16 states in a major nationwide operation against digital arrest scams. The agency announced the action on Thursday, June 25. Investigators linked the operation to an organised fraud network that may be connected to over 200 digital arrest scam cases reported across the country.

The CBI conducted the searches under Operation Chakra-VI. The agency formed 60 special teams and deployed them across several states. The operation covered Punjab, Gujarat, Delhi, Maharashtra, Haryana, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Assam, West Bengal, Manipur, Karnataka and Odisha. Officials coordinated the large-scale action as part of an ongoing investigation into cyber fraud networks that target victims through fake legal threats and digital arrest schemes.

During the operation, the CBI arrested B Naresh from Chennai and Sanjib Saha from Kolkata. Investigators accused them of playing a key role in creating shell companies and operating mule bank accounts. Authorities alleged that these entities helped fraudsters move and hide illegal funds obtained through cybercrime activities. The agency stated that the suspects used these accounts to launder nearly ₹2 crore in suspected proceeds of crime.

The investigation also led to the discovery of a fake website designed to resemble the official website of the Supreme Court of India. According to the CBI, fraudsters used a web address that closely matched the genuine Supreme Court domain. They allegedly used the website to impersonate judicial authorities and mislead victims. Investigators believe the accused used the fake platform to create a false impression of legal action and pressure people into complying with fraudulent demands made under the pretext of a “digital arrest.”

The CBI launched the investigation after receiving a complaint from the Supreme Court Registry. Based on the complaint, the agency registered a First Information Report (FIR) and started monitoring their activities. Investigators used advanced forensic tools and technical expertise during the probe. These efforts helped officials identify important components of the criminal infrastructure that operated in India and abroad.

The investigation revealed that the accused allegedly uploaded forged and fabricated documents on digital platforms to make their claims appear genuine. These documents included fake court orders, fabricated notices, and other records purportedly issued by courts and various law enforcement agencies. Investigators believe the network used these forged documents to convince victims that legal proceedings were underway against them. This tactic helped the fraudsters to exploit them.

During the searches, CBI teams seized several documents and electronic devices that may provide further evidence in the case. Officials recovered mobile phones, digital devices and records related to bank transactions. The agency stated that experts will conduct detailed forensic examinations of the seized material. Investigators expect the analysis to help identify additional members of the network and trace the movement of funds linked to the scam.

The agency also found indications that the network may have targeted people outside India. According to the CBI, available evidence suggests that nationals from several foreign countries may have fallen victim to the same fraud operation. Investigators are now examining the international links of the network and assessing the scale of the scam beyond Indian borders.

The CBI stated that it began informing relevant law enforcement agencies in other countries through appropriate channels. Authorities are sharing information and coordinating efforts wherever victims or suspects have connections outside India. Officials continue to investigate the case and are working to identify all individuals involved in the operation.

The latest crackdown highlights the growing threat posed by digital arrest scams and other forms of cyber-enabled financial fraud. Through Operation Chakra-VI, the CBI has taken significant action against a network that allegedly used fake legal notices, shell companies and mule accounts to deceive victims and move illegal funds. The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities are expected to pursue further leads emerging from the evidence collected during the searches.