Varanasi: A retired IAS officer, Bhupendra Nath Singh, was tricked into transferring Rs 45 lakh to cybercriminals who impersonated CBI officials, claiming his involvement in a money laundering case. The fraudsters carried out a meticulously planned scam using phone calls and digital manipulation to instill fear in the victim.
How the Scam Unfolded
On October 6 and 7, 2025, Singh received phone calls on his mobile from a person claiming to be Neeraj Thakur, an officer at the CBI Headquarters, Barakhamba Road, Delhi. The caller informed Singh that his name had surfaced in a major money laundering case and that a digital arrest procedure was imminent.
Using detailed case references and procedural information, the fraudsters created a sense of urgency and fear. Under this pressure, Singh transferred Rs 25 lakh in the first transaction and Rs 20 lakh in the second transaction to bank accounts specified by the cybercriminals.
Victim Registers FIR
After completing the transactions, Singh became suspicious and approached the Cantt Police Station, where he filed an FIR recounting the entire incident. The police have launched an investigation to trace the fraudsters and recover the stolen money.
Police Response
DCP Pramod Kumar stated that the investigation is ongoing, with a focus on analyzing bank accounts, mobile numbers, and call-related digital data used in the cyber fraud. Cantt Police Station In-Charge Shivakant Mishra confirmed that an FIR has been registered and detailed inquiries have begun to track the perpetrators.
Warning Against Cyber Frauds
Authorities have warned the public to be vigilant against similar scams, particularly those involving fake digital arrests, money laundering threats, or impersonation of law enforcement officials. Victims are advised to verify any such claims independently before making financial transactions.
