Hyderabad: Suraram police arrested a man for stealing a hospital patient’s mobile phone and transferring ₹8 lakh using UPI applications, SHO Sudheer Krishna confirmed on Tuesday.
Patient’s phone stolen and UPI used for fraudulent transfers
On January 7, the incident took place at Narayana Malla Reddy Hospital, where Praveen Kumar was undergoing treatment. During that time, the accused managed to steal Kumar’s mobile phone and used the UPI apps on the device to transfer a large amount of money from his account.
Immediately after receiving a complaint, Suraram police filed a case and launched an investigation. The crime team closely examined CCTV footage and traced the digital payment activity with technical support. As a result, they successfully identified and located the suspect.
The suspect, Burada Adi Narayana, 34, hails from Kavidipalli village in Medak district. Officers apprehended him and seized one stolen phone along with ₹6.73 lakh in cash. Overall, police recovered property valued at approximately ₹7 lakh.
Authorities remanded the accused to judicial custody and stated that legal proceedings are progressing.
Senior officials appreciated the swift action of the Suraram crime team. Moreover, police advised citizens to stay alert in hospitals and busy public areas. They also urged the public to apply security locks on mobile phones and banking apps to prevent misuse.