Sextortion Racket Busted in Shivpuri: Fake Cops and Virtual Traps Exposed

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Sextortion Operation Dismantled in Shivpuri, Madhya Pradesh

A large-scale sextortion operation was dismantled in Shivpuri, Madhya Pradesh, resulting in the arrest of 20 individuals.

Modus Operandi

The gang allegedly utilized fake social media profiles to entice victims into explicit video conversations, which were subsequently recorded and used as leverage for extortion.

The perpetrators created fictional personas, typically posing as women, to initiate contact with targets through various mobile applications. Once a connection was established, the victims were persuaded to engage in video calls, which were secretly recorded. The gang would then threaten to release the compromising content unless a ransom was paid.

Extortion Demands

The extortion demands were often made by an individual claiming to be a law enforcement officer, who would instruct the victim to transfer funds to a designated account to avoid arrest. The money was then laundered through a network of mule accounts.

Investigation

An investigation, codenamed “Operation Matrix,” revealed that the gang employed multiple apps, including HIIU, Tokki, MIKA, ELOELO, GAGA, HANI, SUGO, COMMECTO, HITSU, HONEY, and COMET, to identify and target potential victims.

The probe also uncovered a sophisticated network of operatives, with multiple individuals working together to execute the scheme. The gang’s use of various SIM cards and vehicles allowed them to operate from different locations, making it difficult to track their activities.

Seized Assets

The investigation led to the seizure of 29 mobile phones, seven cars, one motorcycle, 16 ATM cards, seven bank passbooks, a property registry document, and ₹1.2 lakh in cash. The total value of the seized assets is estimated to be ₹1.07 crore.

Arrests and Ongoing Investigation

The arrests were made in response to four First Information Reports (FIRs) filed within a week, which named 32 individuals in connection with the sextortion racket. Two additional cases involving credit card fraud and fake loan scams were also linked to the gang.

The investigation highlighted the growing concern of young people being drawn to cybercrime due to the promise of easy money and a luxurious lifestyle. The perpetrators often flaunted their wealth by purchasing high-end smartphones, SUVs, and branded clothing.

The police have urged citizens to exercise caution when engaging in online interactions, particularly when it comes to explicit video conversations with strangers. They have also encouraged individuals to report any blackmail attempts to the cyber helpline 1930.

The investigation is ongoing, and further arrests are expected as authorities continue to track down digital evidence, bank transactions, mule account holders, and SIM suppliers.