The Gujarat Crime Branch has successfully dismantled a multi-state cyber fraud network after a female professor from Ajmer, Rajasthan, was defrauded of Rs 7.5 lakh by scammers impersonating CBI officers. The alleged mastermind, Hitesh Praveenchandra Dhodiyawala, 45, was arrested from Jahangirpura, Surat, revealing a large-scale cyber scam spanning multiple states.
The incident took place on 30 August 2025, when the professor received a call claiming that a SIM card in her name had been used to send offensive messages. She was later contacted via video call by an individual impersonating CBI officer Daya Nayak, who warned her about a pending Supreme Court case. The caller threatened a “digital arrest” unless she transferred money to resolve the matter. Believing the threat, the professor transferred Rs 7.5 lakh online.
The Ajmer Cyber Crime Police traced the transaction to Hitesh Dhodiyawala in Surat. A joint operation by the Surat Crime Branch, Vehicle Theft Squad, and Gujarat Crime Branch led to his arrest at Doctor Park Road, Jahangirpura, during a late-night raid.
Investigations revealed Hitesh’s criminal history. Previously a stock market trader, he ran an investment firm, De Hypers Investment Advisors, which collapsed after losses of Rs 5 crore, leaving him in debt. He then joined an online money-laundering network, connecting with a handler known as “Roki” through Instagram.
Hitesh allegedly coordinated with other gang members in Ahmedabad, using his IndusInd Bank account to route illicit funds while earning a commission. On 2 September 2025 alone, Rs 48.78 lakh was transferred through his account, with Hitesh earning Rs 62,900. His account is linked to at least seven cybercrime cases across India, including complaints from West Bengal, Kerala, Maharashtra, and Telangana.
Authorities also noted an existing Prohibition Act case against Hitesh registered at Katargam Police Station. He has now been handed over to Ajmer Cyber Crime Police for further investigation.
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