Mumbai: Former MLA Krishna Hegde has raised concerns with Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Mumbai Police Commissioner over a surge in extortion scams involving fake cyber police, CBI officials, and other imposters who are targeting unsuspecting individuals.
In his letter, Hegde highlighted the modus operandi of these criminals. The scam begins with calls from entities like “Indian Post” or “DHL,” claiming they have intercepted suspicious packages. Subsequently, a group of fraudsters posing as officials from agencies like the CBI, Customs, or Police takes over, intimidating and blackmailing victims under the guise of a fabricated investigation.
“These scammers isolate their targets, terrorize them by placing them under what I call a ‘digital house arrest,’ and then extort large sums of money,” Hegde explained. “They often target women, leaving them mentally traumatized and financially drained.”
Hegde also pointed out that similar scams are being perpetrated through fake calls from electricity departments and other government agencies. These fraudsters often demand payments or ask for sensitive information like OTPs under false pretenses.
To aid the investigation, Hegde has provided contact numbers and other details of one of the fraudsters who targeted a victim. He has urged the Chief Minister to direct the police to take immediate and strict action against these dangerous elements to prevent further incidents.
Hegde also drew attention to the resurgence of Ponzi scheme operators such as Bliss Consultants, Goodwin Jewellers, Ambar Dalal, and Torres Jewellers, who have recently duped thousands of investors of crores of rupees.
“These incidents highlight the urgent need for a comprehensive crackdown on such scams. The authorities must act swiftly to restore trust and ensure the safety of citizens,” Hegde concluded.
This alarming trend of scams calls for robust measures by the police and government to protect vulnerable individuals from falling prey to such sophisticated frauds.