Sun Feb 22 14:22:50 UTC 2026: ### Rice-Pulling Scam Busted in Andhra Pradesh: Man Arrested for Cheating and Intimidation

The Story:

On Sunday, February 22, 2026, police in Sri Sathya Sai district, Andhra Pradesh, arrested Chintakunta Krishna Reddy, also known as D.K. Babu, for allegedly defrauding a resident of Talupula. Reddy reportedly promised to create a “rice-pulling” copper vessel, claiming it possessed mystical properties and could be sold for ₹2 crore. The complainant allegedly paid ₹10 lakh in installments between June and July 2025. When the complainant demanded a refund, Reddy allegedly threatened him, confined him, and extorted an additional ₹3 lakh.

Acting on a tip-off, police intercepted an SUV near Tanakallu and arrested Reddy, seizing cash, mobile phones, the vehicle, and several copper vessels. The case has been registered under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.

Key Points:

  • Date of Arrest: February 22, 2026.
  • Location: Sri Sathya Sai district, Andhra Pradesh, specifically near Tanakallu.
  • Accused: Chintakunta Krishna Reddy alias D.K. Babu (44), of Talupula mandal.
  • Victim: A resident of Talupula.
  • Modus Operandi: Promised a “rice-pulling” copper vessel with mystical properties, claiming a high resale value.
  • Financial Loss: The complainant paid ₹10 lakh in installments and was allegedly extorted for an additional ₹3 lakh.
  • Charges: Cheating and criminal intimidation under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
  • Seized Items: Cash, mobile phones, the SUV, and copper vessels.

Critical Analysis:

The arrest for the “rice-pulling” scam occurs amidst a backdrop of rising concerns about financial fraud, as highlighted by related news. The Prime Minister’s warning about “digital arrest scams” suggests a broader societal vulnerability to deception. The liquor scam and the cooperative society scam further underscore the prevalence of fraudulent activities targeting individuals and institutions. The desperation of people looking for quick money makes them vulnerable to such scams, while the news related to cyber-scam factories indicates how the fraudulent activities are increasingly getting sophisticated and organized.

Key Takeaways:

  • Superstition and the promise of quick riches continue to be exploited by fraudsters in India.
  • Law enforcement is actively pursuing such cases, though prevention remains a challenge.
  • Increased public awareness campaigns are needed to educate citizens about these scams and how to avoid becoming victims.
  • The context of other ongoing scams suggests a wider issue of financial vulnerability and a need for stronger regulatory oversight.
  • The arrest highlights the need for vigilance and verification of claims promising extraordinary financial returns.

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