A city sessions court in Ahmedabad has denied bail to a suspect involved in a digital arrest fraud case. The incident centers around a 79-year-old woman from Hansol, who was reportedly defrauded of Rs 38 lakh. The court’s decision was made on Monday, reflecting the seriousness of the allegations against the accused.
Police said that after Biswal’s arrest, they found him operating an account in the name of SS Enterprise, from which Rs 8 lakh was recovered.
Police said the accused used video calls and showed a setup featuring a board of the Anti-Terrorism Squad to convince the victim. The woman was told she had been in contact with a terrorist and was asked to transfer money in the name of verification, according to the prosecution. Investigators suspect the remaining amount was withdrawn or transferred by other accused in the case.
After the hearing, additional sessions judge J I Patel said, “A prima facie case of fraud is made out against the applicant, who allegedly deceived the complainant, obtained money from her and earned commission from the proceeds. Noting that the case pertains to a “digital arrest” scam and considering the nature of the offence and the prescribed punishment, the court held that it would not be just or reasonable to exercise its discretionary powers in favour of the applicant. The investigation is still underway and three other complaints have also been registered.