Three arrested in Rs 66 lakh digital fraud in Bengal; Crypto and cash seized

On January 24, three individuals were arrested in connection with a digital fraud case involving Rs 66 lakh. The case, registered under Charu Market PS Case No. 135 on November 8, 2024, involves a senior citizen who was defrauded through digital fraud. The arrested individuals are Pratap Roy (27), Utpal Sikdar (31), and Kumaresh Halder (35), all from Krishnanagar, Nadia. The trio is accused of using digital platforms to manipulate the victim into transferring a large sum of money.

Pratap Roy, identified as a key figure in the case, was arrested after being pointed out by Kalpana Roy, a mule account holder involved in the scam. Investigations revealed that Roy held 10,000 USDT (approximately Rs 8.4 lakh in Indian Rupees) in his Binance wallet, which was promptly blocked after authorities contacted the exchange. Following his arrest, Utpal Sikdar was apprehended based on Roy’s statement. A search of Sikdar's residence led to the seizure of Rs 74 lakh in cash, two laptops, and two mobile phones. These devices are being analyzed for evidence related to the fraud.

Kumaresh Halder, the third individual arrested, was taken into custody in Krishnanagar after attending a marriage party. Halder, originally from Krishnanagar, had recently moved to a flat in Chinar Park, Rajarhat. He is suspected of being a key figure in the cryptocurrency transactions associated with the scam, with earlier arrests pointing to his involvement. Authorities are continuing the investigation to trace the origin of the funds and determine whether additional individuals are linked to the crime. The seized evidence is under scrutiny to uncover further details of the fraud operation.