Key facts
- CBI searched over 80 locations across 16 states
- Operation named 'Operation Chakra-VI'
- Targeted digital arrest scam networks
- Part of ongoing CBI Chakra series on cybercrime
The CBI struck at the heart of India's digital arrest scam network on Wednesday, conducting searches at over 80 locations spread across 16 states in a coordinated operation code-named 'Operation Chakra-VI'. The raids represent the latest and largest phase of the agency's ongoing Chakra series targeting organised cybercrime syndicates.
Digital arrest fraud has become one of the most damaging forms of online crime in India. Perpetrators typically impersonate officials from agencies such as the CBI, Narcotics Control Bureau, or Customs, and tell victims they are under 'digital arrest' — compelling them to remain on video calls and hand over money to avoid fabricated legal consequences. Victims have ranged from working professionals to senior citizens, with losses running into crores.
The scale of Wednesday's searches — spanning 16 states and more than 80 premises — signals that investigators have mapped a wide network of operators, middlemen and money mules behind the scam ecosystem. Previous phases of Operation Chakra targeted cybercrime infrastructure including call centres, SIM card networks and hawala channels.
The operation underlines the government's stated push to make India's digital space safer, coming after Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the public on the menace of digital arrest frauds in his Mann Ki Baat programme. Arrests and further legal proceedings are expected to follow as the CBI processes seized devices and documents from the raided locations.