13 Arrested in Moradabad for Nationwide APK and Investment Fraud

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Law enforcement officials have detained 13 individuals linked to a cross-state cyber fraud operation, which allegedly targeted victims nationwide via malicious APK files and deceptive investment schemes.

Key Details of the Arrest

The 13 suspects were apprehended after police intercepted the group during an attempt to set up a new base in Moradabad. Civil Lines police conducted vehicle checks near Sonakpur bridge, leading to the arrest of 13 individuals following verification processes.

Authorities state the network operated for approximately four years, defrauding individuals of over ₹10 crore. During raids, investigators recovered ₹26,000 in cash, laptops, SIM cards, and two vehicles.

Operational Strategy

The gang’s principal organizer remains at large. The investigation revealed the group did not maintain a fixed operational base. Instead, members established temporary hubs in various cities for about a month, leveraging local contacts to acquire mule bank accounts.

These accounts were allegedly used to funnel illicit funds before transferring them to secondary accounts. The suspects avoided conducting fraud activities from their residences or hotels, instead traveling by vehicle to execute operations remotely using mobile devices and other equipment.

Investigation Findings

The scheme involved distributing malicious APK files and promoting fraudulent investment opportunities. Victims were enticed to click on links or download files, which led to financial losses. Once funds entered mule accounts, they were systematically transferred through multiple banking channels to obscure the origin of the money.

Investigators found the gang had utilized over 5,000 mule bank accounts to process illicit transactions. Funds were moved between these accounts before being distributed through additional banking networks.

International Connections

The group is also suspected of collaborating with cybercriminals based in Dubai and other Gulf nations, who relied on the Indian network to facilitate money laundering through mule accounts.

Authorities are analyzing the financial records of these accounts to identify participants and their roles within the network.

Ongoing Investigation

Current police efforts focus on examining digital evidence recovered from the arrested individuals, including laptops and SIM cards, alongside financial records tied to mule accounts. Investigators are seeking additional network members, individuals who provided mule accounts, and foreign associates linked to the operation.

The scale of the mule account network is under scrutiny to determine potential connections to other cyber fraud cases. The probe remains active, with ongoing efforts to locate the fugitive gang leader.

Legal Proceedings

Legal proceedings against the arrested individuals are pending, with outcomes contingent on judicial processes. Further actions will depend on evidence gathered during the investigation.