Police in New Delhi have made a significant breakthrough in a major cyber fraud case. They arrested eight individuals accused of operating an interstate investment fraud syndicate. This criminal network managed to siphon nearly Rs 4 crore through mule bank accounts in just fourteen days.
Arrests Include MBA Graduate and Elderly Man
Among those arrested was a 61-year-old man and an MBA graduate. Police investigations revealed the gang had connections to handlers based in Cambodia. The Indian members of the ring facilitated mule accounts and coordinated fund transfers in exchange for commissions.
Investigation Triggered by Multiple Complaints
The arrests followed a detailed investigation into a fake investment scam that duped numerous victims across India. Police officials stated at least sixty-three complaints registered on the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal could be linked to this specific gang.
The arrested individuals have been identified as:
- Vanapatla Sunil Kumar, 43, from Telangana
- Sakinala Shankar, 61, from Telangana
- Manoj Yadav, 38, from Sant Kabir Nagar, Uttar Pradesh
- Sandeep Singh, 30, from Varanasi
- Aditya Pratap Singh, 23, from Bundi, Rajasthan
- Rahul, 30, from the Nabi Karim area
- Sheru, 38, from the Nabi Karim area
- Sompal, 34, from Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh
Key Role of MBA Graduate in the Scam
Police highlighted the role of Sompal, the MBA graduate. He previously ran a software company. After his business failed, he allegedly supplied his corporate bank account to the cyber fraudsters.
Case Origins and Modus Operandi
The case first came to light on November 7 last year. A 42-year-old woman from Vasant Kunj filed a complaint stating she was cheated of Rs 15.58 lakh. The fraudsters promised her expert guidance and high returns on stock market investments. She subsequently transferred money to accounts controlled by the syndicate.
Deputy Commissioner of Police Amit Goel explained the investigation trail. It first led to Sunil in Telangana. He allegedly arranged mule accounts for a commission by opening a fake firm in Keesara and securing a current bank account. His associate Shankar was arrested next, followed by Manoj Yadav, who tested the account in Lucknow.
Nationwide Raids and Coordination
Police conducted raids in Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Delhi. These operations led to the arrest of the remaining accused. DCP Goel detailed that Aditya Pratap Singh coordinated the supply of mule accounts across India. He shared their access with foreign handlers using the Telegram messaging app.
The cheated funds were layered through multiple accounts held by Sompal and Rahul. This technique made tracing the money extremely difficult for investigators.
Evidence Seized by Police
During the arrests, police seized crucial evidence. They found ten smartphones and thirteen SIM cards. These items were allegedly used to operate the fraudulent accounts, transfer funds, and communicate with overseas handlers.
