Odisha Police Busts ₹5.27 Crore Interstate Cyber Fraud Racket, Exposing Nationwide Links
Law Enforcement Operation Uncovers Extensive Cybercrime Network in India, Seizes ₹5.27 Crore in Illicit Funds
A coordinated effort by law enforcement agencies in the Indian state of Odisha has led to the disruption of a large-scale cybercrime ring, resulting in the arrest of 15 individuals and the seizure of ₹5.27 crore (approximately $700,000 USD) in illicit funds.
Modus Operandi of the Cybercrime Syndicate
According to investigators, the cybercrime syndicate specifically targeted financially vulnerable individuals, including those who were unemployed, and convinced them to open bank accounts and surrender control of their passbooks, ATM cards, and Know Your Customer (KYC) documents.
These compromised accounts were then used to receive and transfer funds obtained through various online scams, with the money being routed through multiple accounts to evade detection.
Investigation and Crackdown
The investigation, led by the Jharsuguda police, found that the suspects had been operating a sophisticated money-laundering scheme, with transactions linked to several states across India.
The police have issued notices to eight additional individuals for questioning under Section 35(3) of the Banking Regulation Act, as part of the ongoing probe.
Warning to Citizens
The Odisha police have urged citizens to exercise caution when dealing with their financial information, advising them to never share their bank account details, ATM cards, or KYC documents with others.
In the event of suspicious transactions, citizens are advised to immediately report the incident to their bank and the police, and to contact the national cybercrime helpline at 1930.
Broader Efforts to Combat Cybercrime
The operation is part of a broader effort to dismantle organized cybercrime networks in India, with law enforcement agencies working to identify the key players behind the syndicate and their connections to other states.
As the investigation continues, officials are analyzing the money trail and working to disrupt the network’s operations.
Significance of the Crackdown
The crackdown on cybercrime is a significant step forward in the fight against online scams and financial fraud in India, and serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and cooperation between law enforcement agencies and the public in preventing such crimes.
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