Kolkata Police Arrest Another Suspect in SIM Box Fraud Linked to Digital Arrest Scheme
Synopsis
The Kolkata Police have made significant strides in combating cyber fraud by apprehending Arpan Sikdar, a key suspect in a scam involving illegal SIM box systems and a 'digital arrest' scheme, resulting in a loss of Rs 3 crore for victims.
Key Takeaways
Kolkata Police have arrested Arpan Sikdar in a significant cyber fraud case.
The scam involved a 'digital arrest' scheme that defrauded victims of Rs 3 crore .
A total of six operational SIM boxes and numerous SIM cards were seized.
Authorities are investigating links to other fraud cases and crypto transactions .
Public reporting of scams is crucial for effective law enforcement response.
Kolkata, March 18 (NationPress) - The Kolkata Police have dismantled a sophisticated cyber fraud network that was utilizing illegal SIM box systems to facilitate the routing of deceptive calls and impersonation.
On Tuesday night, authorities apprehended a young man accused of scamming an individual out of Rs 3 crore through a scheme dubbed 'digital arrest', as reported on Wednesday by officials.
The suspect, identified as Arpan Sikdar, was arrested following a raid in Ashoknagar, located in the North 24 Parganas district. Reports indicate that he executed the fraud by misusing his girlfriend’s personal documents and broadband service. A functioning SIM box was also seized during the operation.
It is important to mention that prior to this arrest, police had taken two individuals into custody related to the illegal SIM box operation. During their questioning, details about Arpan Sikdar emerged.
According to police reports, in October 2025, the fraudsters initially contacted a couple, pretending to be representatives of a courier service. They informed the couple that a package addressed to them contained illicit narcotics.
Following this, the perpetrators reached out again, this time impersonating officials from the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). The couple reportedly underwent a 'digital arrest', effectively being held hostage via video calls for 14 days.
Over the course of this period, they transferred a cumulative amount of Rs 3 crore in various installments to bank accounts specified by the fraudsters.
Days later, upon realizing they had been duped, the couple filed a complaint with the Kolkata Police. The Cyber Police Station promptly initiated an investigation.
In February, a search operation in north Kolkata led to the recovery of a SIM box along with multiple SIM cards. This ultimately enabled police to track down Arpan, who has now been apprehended.
Authorities confiscated six operational SIM boxes hidden in carton containers, 130 active BSNL SIM cards inserted within these boxes, three mobile phones, four routers, and various related accessories.
“We are actively working to establish links to crypto transactions, courier connections, and the SIM supply chain to identify and arrest any additional associates involved in this case. We will also analyze connections with other cases across India,” stated the police.
Point of View
Particularly the use of technology for malicious purposes. The Kolkata Police's proactive measures in dismantling such operations reflect a commitment to ensuring public safety and security.
NationPress
6 Aug 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a SIM box fraud?
SIM box fraud involves the illegal use of SIM cards to route calls through VoIP networks, allowing fraudsters to make calls at a much lower cost while disguising their true identity.
How was the couple defrauded in this case?
The couple was misled by fraudsters posing as courier service representatives and later as law enforcement officials, leading them to believe they were involved in a criminal case, which resulted in them transferring Rs 3 crore.
What actions are the Kolkata Police taking against cyber fraud?
The Kolkata Police are actively investigating the case, conducting raids, and working to identify other potential associates involved in the fraud, while also examining links to crypto transactions.
What should I do if I encounter a similar scam?
If you suspect you are being targeted by a scam, do not engage with the fraudsters, gather any evidence, and report the incident to local law enforcement authorities immediately.
What are the signs of a potential scam call?
Signs of a scam call can include unsolicited contact, requests for personal information or money, and high-pressure tactics to act quickly.
