V. Chalapathi Rao, a notorious fraudster from Hyderabad who had evaded capture for two decades, was apprehended by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in Narsinganallur, Tamil Nadu, on August 4, 2024. Rao had been on the run since 2004 after defrauding a bank of ₹50 lakhs through the fabrication of documents. His ability to evade law enforcement by frequently changing his identity and location made his case one of the most challenging for Indian authorities.
Rao’s elaborate ruse included adopting multiple aliases and relocating to various cities across India, including Salem, Bhopal, and Rudrapur. His ingenuity in disguising himself reached a point where a Hyderabad court declared him dead, adding another layer of complexity to the manhunt. Despite these obstacles, the CBI’s relentless efforts and advanced tracking methods eventually led them to Rao.
When apprehended, Rao was living under the guise of a sadhu, Swamy Vidhitatmanand Teertha, in a remote village in Tamil Nadu. His appearance as a holy man was a stark contrast to his past as a fraudster. Rao’s arrest came just in time, as he was reportedly planning to flee to Sri Lanka to continue evading capture.
The CBI’s investigation revealed that Rao’s modus operandi involved using forged documents to secure loans and credits from banks, which he never intended to repay. His skill in creating convincing fake identities and documents allowed him to slip through the cracks of law enforcement agencies for years. However, the advancement in digital tracking and inter-state cooperation among police forces eventually closed in on him.
Following his arrest, Rao was produced before a court and remanded in custody until August 16, 2024. This arrest marks a significant victory for the CBI and Indian law enforcement, highlighting their dedication to bringing long-term fugitives to justice. The case also underscores the importance of continuous vigilance and the use of modern technology in tracking down individuals who exploit the system for personal gain.
Rao’s capture is expected to lead to a thorough investigation into his past activities and possible connections to other criminal enterprises. The CBI is also likely to delve into how Rao managed to sustain his fugitive lifestyle for so long and who may have aided him in evading the authorities. This case serves as a reminder of the enduring nature of justice and the eventual downfall of those who believe they can escape the law indefinitely.