Mangaluru— A retired elderly woman in the city has reportedly been duped of more than ₹3.09 crore in an elaborate “digital arrest” fraud.
As per a complaint filed at the Cyber Economic and Narcotics (CEN) police station, the victim, identified as Leni Prabhu, received a missed call from an unfamiliar number on January 15, 2025. Upon calling back, she was allegedly told by a woman impersonating a General Post Office official that a parcel “she sent” to China had been returned after being found to contain 150 grams of MDMA.
The caller warned her that such an offence could lead to over 75 years in prison, claiming her identity had been misused. Despite her denial, the victim was persuaded to share personal details under the pretext of obtaining a no-objection certificate — but only if she transferred 93% of her pension.
Under intimidation and fearing arrest, she allegedly travelled to Mangaluru and transferred ₹55 lakh via RTGS to bank accounts provided by the fraudsters. They instructed her to keep the matter secret, maintaining her compliance through fear.
Between January 17 and July 4, the woman reportedly sent a total of ₹3,09,75,000 in several instalments. The scam surfaced only when the fraudsters ceased all communication.
Police confirmed the con was executed using the “digital arrest” method — a cybercrime tactic where victims are threatened with fabricated legal charges to extort money. A case has been registered, and investigations are in progress.