Elderly Kerala Couple Loses Over ₹1.40 Crore in ‘Virtual Arrest’ Cyber Scam

In a shocking case of cyber fraud, an elderly couple from Mallappally, Pathanamthitta, lost more than ₹1.40 crore to scammers who trapped them in a “virtual arrest” scam. The victims, David P. Mathew and his wife Shirley, had recently returned from Abu Dhabi.

According to the police, the fraudsters posed as officials from the Mumbai Crime Branch. They falsely accused the couple of being involved in crimes such as child pornography and money laundering. The scammers told the couple that a phone number registered in Shirley’s name had been used to circulate objectionable content and that a complaint had been filed at Chembur Police Station.

The callers warned that the couple would be arrested unless they transferred money immediately as “bail”. They were also instructed not to speak to anyone, claiming they were now under “virtual arrest”.

To increase pressure, another caller alleged that ₹20 lakh had been transferred under Shirley’s account from a bank account linked to businessman Naresh Goyal, and that central agencies like the CBI and Enforcement Directorate were monitoring their transactions. The couple was threatened that their bank accounts would be frozen if they did not cooperate.

Fearful and confused, the couple transferred ₹90.50 lakh in multiple instalments, followed by another ₹50 lakh.

The scam came to light on Friday when the couple attempted to transfer an additional ₹38 lakh from a Federal Bank branch. The bank staff noticed unusual activity and informed the police, who immediately intervened.

Keezhvaipur Police have registered a case under relevant sections of cheating and cyber fraud. The investigation has been handed over to the Cyber Cell, which believes the money was routed through several mule accounts.

Officials warned that such “virtual arrest” scams are increasing across the country, especially targeting senior citizens. Police have advised the public to stay alert and to never respond to threatening calls claiming to be from law enforcement. Any suspicious demand for money should be reported to the nearest police station or cybercrime helpline.