In a shocking case of cyber fraud from Gwalior, even spiritual leaders are proving to be vulnerable to online scams. Swami Supradiptananda, the secretary of Ramakrishna Mission Ashram in Gwalior, fell victim to a sophisticated cyber con that cost him ₹2.52 crore over 26 harrowing days.
This incident is being termed as the largest ‘digital arrest’ case ever reported in Madhya Pradesh. The scammers reportedly impersonated Maharashtra police officials and manipulated the Swami through a series of video calls, leaving him trapped under mental pressure and fear of legal consequences.
According to media reports, the fraudulent episode began on March 17 when Swami Supradiptananda received an unexpected video call. The caller introduced himself as a police officer from Nashik, Maharashtra, and falsely accused the Swami of involvement in a high-profile money laundering case involving businessmen.
Using fear and psychological tactics, the fraudsters convinced the Swami to cooperate in a so-called ‘verification process.’ Under continuous pressure, he was instructed to transfer large sums of money to multiple bank accounts under the pretext that the funds would be refunded after the verification was complete. The scam continued for 26 consecutive days, during which the Swami transferred a total of ₹2.52 crore to 12 different bank accounts across India.
When the promised deadline of April 15 passed and the funds were not returned, Swami Supradiptananda realized he had been duped and immediately reported the matter to the police. Investigations are now underway.
Authorities suspect the fraud could be the work of a large interstate or even international cybercrime ring. Given the scale and strategy of the scam, police believe that other individuals might have also fallen prey to the same gang. Investigators are currently trying to trace the money trail and identify all the accounts involved.
The term ‘digital arrest’ refers to a growing type of cyber fraud where scammers pose as law enforcement officials via video calls. They falsely accuse their target of involvement in illegal activities and apply intense psychological pressure, coercing the victim to transfer money for so-called ‘verification’ or to avoid arrest. Though there’s no physical detention, the victim remains trapped financially and emotionally.
This case is a reminder that cybercriminals are using increasingly sophisticated techniques, and anyone can become a target, regardless of social status or profession. Authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant, avoid engaging with unknown callers — especially those claiming to be law enforcement — and always verify any legal claims directly through official channels.
