₹56 Lakh Cyber Fraud Busted in Katihar: BTech Graduate Arrested for Posing as CBI Officer

a major crackdown on cybercrime, police in Katihar

In a major crackdown on cybercrime, police in Katihar have arrested a 25-year-old man, Akash Mukherjee, in connection with a ₹56.8 lakh scam that targeted a retired government officer and his wife. The case reveals the growing boldness and psychological manipulation used by cybercriminals operating across India.

A Digital Con Job: Impersonation and Fear Tactics

The scam began in January 2025 when Akash, masquerading as a CBI officer, contacted a retired Agriculture Department employee in Bihar. Over multiple calls, he accused the couple of being involved in "anti-national activities" and threatened them with treason charges and even capital punishment.

Using sophisticated psychological tactics and fake documentation, he managed to convince the victims to transfer over ₹56 lakh in multiple transactions—allegedly to “clear their name” from the fabricated investigation.

Police Crackdown: Mastermind with a Tech Degree

The accused, a BTech graduate with no stable job, had turned to cyber fraud after failing to find employment. He had even set up a hardware store as a cover for his activities, which police say helped him stay off the radar for a while.

Katihar Cyber Police, in coordination with Motihari's cybercrime cell, used digital forensics to trace the flow of funds. Under the leadership of DSP Abhinav Parashar, they tracked the fraud to Mukherjee’s bank accounts and arrested him from his hideout.

What They Found:

• Bank accounts with multiple fraudulent transactions

• Fake identification and forged CBI documents

• Mobile phones and SIM cards used for spoof calls

A Nationwide Web of Cybercrime

What makes this case even more alarming is that Mukherjee has been linked to at least 21 other cyber fraud cases across eight states. According to police sources, he is part of a larger cybercrime syndicate operating out of West Bengal, with digital footprints stretching to Nepal and Pakistan.

Authorities believe this gang uses advanced caller spoofing, phishing scripts, and forged documents to carry out similar scams targeting vulnerable citizens.

Rising Cybercrime in India: A Wake-Up Call

This incident underscores the growing threat of cyber fraud in India, especially targeting senior citizens and retired government employees. Criminals often exploit fear, authority, and digital impersonation to trap victims.

Public advisory:

• Never share personal or financial information over the phone.

• No law enforcement agency will demand money for clearing your name.

• Always verify the identity of any caller making legal threats.

What’s Next?

The Katihar Police are now working with national cybercrime units to uncover the full extent of the scam. Authorities plan to:

• Trace all victims connected to Mukherjee

• Dismantle the entire gang’s network

• Implement stricter monitoring of online financial fraud

Key Takeaways:

• ₹56.8 lakh scammed from a retired official using impersonation.

• Accused posed as a CBI officer and used fear to extort money.

• Linked to over 21 cyber fraud cases across India.

• Arrested in Katihar by cyber police using digital tracking.