CBI arrests ex-bank manager, two others in ‘digital arrest’ scam spanning AP & Telangana

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has arrested a former bank manager and two associates in connection with a “digital arrest” cyber fraud case involving victims in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.

The accused include Dubbaka Mahesh, a former Assistant Manager at IndusInd Bank, along with Rajesh Kanna and Vayala Srinivas.

₹1.6 crore extortion through intimidation

The case, initiated following directions from the Supreme Court of India, involves the alleged cheating of a senior citizen who was coerced into transferring over ₹1.6 crore under the threat of a so-called “digital arrest”—a fake legal claim used by cyber fraudsters to induce fear and compliance.

How the scam operated

According to the CBI:

• A bank account was fraudulently opened in the name of a company to receive illicit funds
• The account was used to “layer” money through multiple channels to hide its origin
• The former bank official allegedly facilitated the opening of this account
• The other accused arranged mule accounts and managed fund transfers

Searches and evidence

CBI teams conducted searches at five locations across Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. During the operation, officials seized incriminating documents and electronic devices, which are being analysed for further links and evidence.