Lucknow: In a major breakthrough, the Cyber Crime Police Station Lucknow has arrested two more accused involved in a high-profile cyber fraud case in which fraudsters posed as Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) officers and extorted nearly ₹90 lakh from a city resident through a so-called “digital arrest” scam.
How the Fraud Unfolded
The incident began on January 26, 2026, when the complainant’s wife, Veena Bajpai, received a call from a person claiming to be Inspector Ranjit Kumar posted at the ATS Headquarters. The caller falsely accused her of involvement in serious crimes, including terrorism and money laundering, and threatened immediate legal action and arrest.
She was then coerced into downloading the Signal app, where another individual identifying himself as ATS officer Ajay Pratap Srivastava contacted the family. The fraudsters shared forged documents, including fake Supreme Court orders and seizure notices, to create an atmosphere of fear and urgency.
Under immense psychological pressure and threat of arrest, the complainant and his wife were convinced that their bank accounts needed “verification.” Between January 29 and February 9, 2026, they transferred approximately ₹90,00,000 via RTGS into multiple bank accounts specified by the accused.
The criminals later demanded an additional ₹11 lakh and, upon refusal, allegedly abused and threatened the family with harm. Investigators confirmed that the accused maintained constant digital contact, mentally coercing the victims in a well-planned cyber extortion scheme.
A case (Crime No. 23/2026) was registered under Sections 318(4) and 319(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and Section 66(D) of the Information Technology Act.
Investigation and Arrest
Acting under the direction of the Lucknow Police Commissioner and senior crime officials, a special team was constituted under the leadership of Inspector Brijesh Kumar Yadav, in-charge of Cyber Crime Police Station Lucknow. Earlier, three accused had already been arrested and sent to judicial custody.
Continuing the probe, the team arrested two more accused:
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Manoj Yadav (21), resident of Guni Ki Dhani, Cheeplata, Thoi Police Station, Sikar district, Rajasthan
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Jitendra Yadav alias Jeetu (23), resident of Devri Ki Dhani, Jharli, Thoi Police Station, Sikar district, Rajasthan
During interrogation, both initially attempted to mislead investigators, claiming limited involvement. However, upon sustained questioning, they admitted to participating in the organized cyber fraud network for monetary commission. They revealed that they operated under instructions from a handler identified as Vaibhav Srivastava and facilitated bank transactions and account operations.
Police found that the accused were part of a multi-layered syndicate involving a mastermind operating from outside the state, local operatives managing bank accounts, and commission-based associates.
Modus Operandi of the Gang
Investigations revealed the gang’s structured method of operation:
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Contacting victims via calls and online platforms while posing as credible officials.
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Using fear tactics—such as false charges of terrorism or money laundering—to create panic.
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Forcing victims to transfer funds under the pretext of “account verification.”
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Utilizing multiple or rented bank accounts in exchange for commission.
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Frequently changing SIM cards, deleting chats, and shifting locations across states to evade detection.
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Attempting to conceal the mastermind’s identity during interrogation.
Previously Arrested Accused
Earlier, on February 17, 2026, the Cyber Crime Police had arrested three other members of the gang:
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Mayank Srivastava (Gorakhpur)
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Irshad (Ghaziabad)
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Manish Kumar (Delhi)
All were sent to judicial custody.
Arresting Team
The operation was carried out by Inspector Vikas Kumar Singh, Sub-Inspector Rohit Panwar, Sub-Inspector Rajat Kaushik, Constable Govind Singh, and Constable Prabhat Gupta of Cyber Crime Police Station Lucknow.
Public Advisory
Police have issued the following advisory:
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There is no legal provision for “digital arrest” in India. Do not panic if you receive such calls.
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Be cautious of investment or trading offers promising unrealistic returns.
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In case of cyber fraud, immediately report it to the National Cyber Crime Helpline at 1930 or visit cybercrime.gov.in.
Authorities have reiterated their commitment to cracking down on organized cybercrime networks and urged citizens to remain vigilant against online fraudsters exploiting fear and misinformation.
