MDMA drugs seized. (File photo)
Credit: Special Arrangement
Mangaluru: An elderly retired woman has reportedly lost over Rs 3.09 crore in an online scam involving the so-called “digital arrest” method.
In a complaint to CEN station, Leni Prabhu noted that on January 15, 2025, she received a missed call from an unknown number. When she dialed back, a woman on the other end claimed to be representing the General Post Office.
The scammer then told her that a parcel she had allegedly sent to China had been returned, containing 150 grams of MDMA. The caller warned that the offence carried a prison term of more than 75 years.
Scammers ask for pension money
Despite the victim’s denial of sending any such parcel, the scammer insisted it was sent in her name using her ID card.
The scammer then obtained Leni's personal details and suggested she could help her. However, they asked her to send 93% of her pension to get a no objection certificate.
Two days from the initial call, under pressure and fearing legal consequences, the retired woman became the victim of the fraud.
Elderly woman loses Rs 3,09,75,000
She reportedly travelled to Mangaluru and transferred Rs 55 lakh via RTGS to the accounts provided by the fraudsters. She was instructed not to inform anyone, which kept her in fear and silence.
From January 17 to July 4, she allegedly transferred a total of Rs 3,09,75,000 in multiple instalments.
The fraud came to light when the accused stopped responding, and the victim realised she had been duped of huge money.
Police case registered
Police said unknown persons had carried out the fraud online using a “digital arrest” tactic.
A case has been registered.