TGCSB arrest key accused in Cambodia cybercrime racket
Hyderabad: Telangana Cyber Security Bureau (TGCSB) has apprehended a key accused for his alleged involvement in sending victims to Cambodia to indulge in cyber crime activities.
The accused was identified as Sadakat Khan from Uttar Pradesh. Sadakat Khan was arrested on November 2, 2024, at Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi while returning from the Maldives. It is pertinent to note that earlier three other agents were arrested. They were K. Sai Prasad from Jagtial, Mohammed Abid Hussain Ansari from Pune (native of Bihar), and Mohd Shadab Alam from Bihar. They were involved in the chain orchestrating this operation.
According to TGCSB, on May 16, 2024, a Sircilla resident filed a complaint regarding her son, who was seeking employment abroad. After collecting Rs 1.4lakh, agents K. Sai Prasad, Mohammed Abid Ansari, Mohammed Shadab Alam, and Sadakat Khan lured him to Cambodia. The complainant said, “Upon arrival, her son informed her that he was confined and coerced into committing cybercrimes, working 16 to 17 hours a day, with his passport confiscated by the agents. He indicated that around 500 to 600 Indians were similarly forced into online fraud for the same company,” said the complainant.
After her complaint, TGCSB, in coordination with officials, successfully brought the victim back to Telangana. He revealed he was physically abused, confined, and extorted under threats to his life.
Modus Operandi
The agents in India lure job seekers with promises of lucrative overseas employment. They collect substantial sums of money as processing fees, registration, and visa charges. Upon reaching Cambodia, victims are handed over to Chinese handlers who force them into cybercriminal activities. Any resistance results in violence and confinement. After months of exploitation, the handlers extort further payments, often demanding payment in bitcoins, threatening the victims’ lives. This scheme results in severe financial and psychological exploitation.
Public Appeal
The Telangana Cyber Security Bureau (TGCSB) urges the public to exercise caution with overseas job offers. Unscrupulous agents deceive candidates with false promises, leading to exploitation abroad.
Verify Job Offers: Before making payments or travel arrangements, investigate job offers and research the agents.
Avoid Large Payments: Be wary of agents demanding large sums for processing fees, registration, or visa charges.
Consult Authorities: Seek verification from local authorities or the destination country’s embassy.
Report Suspicious Activity: Immediately report suspicious job offers or potential victimization to your nearest police station.
Stay vigilant and protect yourself from fraudulent activities that can lead to severe consequences.
