The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has made a significant arrest in Mumbai, apprehending a private bank manager for allegedly assisting cyber criminals by facilitating the creation of mule accounts. The arrest, which took place on Tuesday, November 13, 2025, highlights growing concerns about banking system vulnerabilities exploited by organized cyber crime networks.
Bank Manager Accused of Corruption and Conspiracy
According to official statements from the investigating agency, Nitesh Rai, who served as manager at an Axis Bank branch, allegedly accepted illegal gratification in exchange for misusing his official position. The CBI claims that Rai provided account opening forms directly to cyber fraudsters, enabling them to establish multiple mule accounts within the banking system.
Evidence gathered during the investigation revealed that these accounts were actively utilized in various cyber crimes, with particular emphasis on digital arrest fraud cases. The discovery of Rai's involvement prompted the CBI to register a formal case against him under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) along with the Prevention of Corruption Act.
Wider Pattern of Banking System Exploitation
The investigation has uncovered what appears to be a systematic approach by cyber crime syndicates to infiltrate banking operations. CBI officials explained that cyber criminals routinely offer monetary incentives to bank employees to help them open mule accounts. These accounts serve as temporary repositories for funds obtained through fraudulent activities, allowing criminals to deposit and quickly withdraw illicit money before authorities can trace it.
Following his arrest, Rai was produced before a Mumbai court that remanded him to CBI custody for further interrogation. The agency aims to uncover the full extent of the operation and identify additional individuals involved in the scheme.
Additional Accused and Ongoing Investigation
The First Information Report (FIR) includes another individual accused of providing bribes to the bank manager. Both Rai and this second accused had previously been arrested by the CBI in connection with an ongoing digital arrest case investigation.
CBI officials emphasized that evidence points to a broader pattern of organized cyber crime networks systematically exploiting banking systems. The agency continues to investigate the full scope of these operations and their impact on financial security across the country.
The case has raised serious questions about internal controls within banking institutions and the need for enhanced vigilance against attempts to compromise financial systems for criminal purposes.
