Tue Sep 02 15:19:18 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and a rewritten news article based on the provided text, formatted for The Hindu and reflecting its style:
**Summary:**
The Cyber Crime Wing police in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, India, have arrested a 43-year-old man from Jharkhand who was the kingpin of a cyber fraud operation. The group extorted ₹50 lakh from an elderly woman by posing as CBI officers and threatening her with “digital arrest” for alleged involvement in human trafficking through an account linked to her Aadhaar card. The woman initially complied with their demands, but filed a complaint when they asked for more money. Several members of the gang had already been arrested, leading to the eventual capture of the leader. The Superintendent of Police urged the public to be cautious and report any similar threats.
**News Article:**
**Cyber Crime Wing Nabs Kingpin in ‘Digital Arrest’ Fraud, ₹50 Lakh Extortion Uncovered**
**THOOTHUKUDI, September 2, 2025:** The Cyber Crime Wing of the police in Thoothukudi has apprehended the alleged mastermind behind a sophisticated cyber fraud operation that targeted an elderly woman, resulting in the extortion of ₹50 lakh. U. Rituraj Jaiswal, 43, from Jharkhand, was arrested on Tuesday after a dedicated police team tracked him down following weeks of investigation.
The case came to light when the victim, whose name is being withheld, filed a complaint stating that she had received calls from individuals claiming to be CBI officers. The perpetrators falsely accused her of involvement in a human trafficking scheme, alleging that an account opened in Mumbai with her Aadhaar card had been used for illicit transactions totaling ₹2 crore. They then demanded ₹50 lakh to prevent a purported “digital arrest.”
Initially, the woman complied and transferred the requested sum. However, when the fraudsters pressed for additional funds, she reported the incident to the Cyber Crime Wing. Prior to Jaiswal’s arrest, five other individuals linked to the operation were apprehended and remanded to judicial custody.
“This is a classic example of ‘digital arrest’ fraud, where criminals exploit fear and misinformation to prey on vulnerable citizens,” stated Superintendent of Police Albert John. “We urge the public to exercise extreme caution when receiving unsolicited calls from individuals claiming to be law enforcement officials. Do not share personal information or transfer money under duress. Report any such threats immediately to the police.”
The police are continuing their investigation to uncover the full extent of the fraud operation and identify any other potential victims. This arrest serves as a reminder of the growing threat of cybercrime and the need for increased vigilance in the digital age.
First Piper 