Join with us – for Banking UpdatesBenguluru:In a shocking case of cybercrime-induced mental trauma, a contract employee of Bengaluru Electricity Supply Company (BESCOM) died by suicide after allegedly being duped of ₹13 lakh by cybercriminals in a “digital arrest” scam.
The victim, identified as 43-year-old Ravi Kumar (name changed), reportedly received a call from individuals posing as officers from a reputed courier company and later impersonating CBI officials. They falsely accused him of being involved in an illegal international parcel delivery. In the course of the scam, the fraudsters used video calls to increase psychological pressure, threatening legal action, imprisonment, and public humiliation if he did not comply.
Believing the threats, the terrified victim transferred a total of ₹13 lakh to various bank accounts over a few days. He even borrowed funds to make the payments, fearing arrest and job loss. Tragically, on July 19, 2025, he was found dead by suicide at his residence, leaving behind a note detailing his ordeal and naming the cyber fraudsters.
The incident has sent shockwaves across Karnataka, prompting authorities to intensify awareness drives about rising “digital arrest” scams. These scams typically involve impersonation of law enforcement officials who trap unsuspecting victims in fabricated legal cases and coerce them into paying large sums under fear of arrest.
BESCOM officials and the victim’s family are demanding a thorough probe and stricter measures against cybercriminals. The Bengaluru Police Cyber Crime Cell has registered a case under relevant sections of the IPC and the IT Act. Investigation is underway to trace the perpetrators and freeze the fraudulently obtained funds.
