Major Bust: Telangana police arrest 27 Cyber fraudsters in multi-state operation
Hyderabad: In a major operation, the Telangana Cyber Security Bureau (TGCSB) dismantled a sophisticated digital fraud network.The operation arrested 27 cyber fraudsters involved in over 189 cybercrime cases in Telangana and 2223 cases across India.
The bureau’s newly formed Special Operations Wing conducted operations in the last two weeks of September 2024, saw four TGCSB teams venture into Rajasthan, setting up camp in Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Nagaur.
This first-ever interstate special operation targeted the lifeline of cybercrime: illicit bank accounts used to facilitate digital fraud. During the operations, the teams arrested 27 cyber fraudsters involved in opening and operating 29 Mule Accounts through which a mind-boggling Rs 11 crore suspicious transactions happened as per initial estimates.
The arrested accused are identified as Kalu Ram Lokesh Sharma, Pradeep Gehlot, Rajesh Barman, Kalyan Barman, Manish Jakhar, Kailash Chand Dara, Sachin Bhadana, Tushar jangid, Mohith sharma, Lakkan Arora, Shubham Jatawat, Ashish Jangid, Deepak Jangid, Lucky Kamawat, Murali Dhar Gour, Rakesh Dudi, Vinod Chavariya, Rakesh Jat, Om Harisharnam, Sanjay Morya, Rajesh Pancharia, Ramvilas Sargra, Vishnu Prasad Sargara, Sravan Kumar Mali, Rashid and Maqsood.
2223 cases cracked as Telangana police net 27 fraudsters
These accused who are involved in 2223 cyber crimes across India, including 189 in Telangana, in which the total loss of 9 Crores, allowed their accounts to be used for cybercrimes. Their crimes included Business and Investment, Trading, and Digital arrest cases.
TGCSB Director Shikha Goel praised the operation’s success, highlighting the dedication and precision of her team led by SP Devender Singh. “The main purpose of this operation was to break the supply chain of illicit bank accounts for facilitating cybercrimes. The Telangana Cyber Security Bureau shall continue interstate operations targeting cyber criminals across India to ensure a Cyber-safe Telangana,” said Goel.
The bureau’s approach, combining a real-time technical support team from CSB HQ coordinated 24×7 with the field level teams deployed in Rajasthan, proved effective in tracking and apprehending the cybercriminals.
The operation yielded a trove of evidence, with authorities seizing 31 mobile phones, 37 SIM cards, 13 ATM cards, 7 cheque books, 2 cancelled cheques, 2 hard disks, and certain other documents. The arrested accused were brought on transit warrants from Rajasthan and are now in various jails in Telangana. Moreover, the investigation has identified 33 additional suspects, signaling the beginning of a larger crackdown.
In a concerning development, the TGCSB is examining the potential involvement of bank officials in opening and operating the mule accounts. Further action will be taken against them as per law.
The Telangana Cyber Security Bureau (TGCSB) urges the public to remain vigilant against cyber scams. Be cautious when sharing personal or financial information with unknown individuals or unverified sources. Always verify the legitimacy of payment requests and financial transactions before proceeding. The public is cautioned not to provide their bank account details to anyone for any reason. If you suspect any fraudulent activity, report it immediately to the TGCSB on 1930 or cybercrime.gov.in within the Golden Hour. Stay alert and help us combat cybercrimes.
