Nagpur Police Implements New Standard Operating Procedure to Tackle Cyber Fraud
The Nagpur police department has rolled out a detailed Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) designed to systematize the handling, investigation, and resolution of the increasing number of cyber fraud cases reported at local police stations and the Cyber Police Station. This initiative aims to bring greater clarity and efficiency to the process while protecting the rights of all parties involved.
Strict Timelines for Grievance Redressal Introduced
A central component of the new SOP is the establishment of rigorous timelines for addressing complaints. Specifically, grievances related to fund holds must be resolved within 15 days. If this deadline is not met, the matter will automatically escalate to a district-level officer for further action. Additionally, the procedure enforces a 90-day rule, which mandates the lifting of holds if no legal order is obtained within that period, ensuring that cases do not linger unnecessarily.
Clear Guidelines for Complaint Handling and Investigation
The SOP provides explicit instructions on several key aspects of cyber fraud management:
- Complaint Verification: Police are directed to first scrutinize complaints received through the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (NCRP), the 1930 helpline, or directly at police stations. This initial step is crucial to establish a prima facie case of cyber-enabled financial crime before escalating it to the central financial fraud system.
- Fund-Tracking Mechanisms: Officials are required to initiate prompt action to hold suspected funds using legally valid electronic notices under the provisions of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS).
- Registration of Offences: Freezing or seizure of bank accounts will now mandatorily require the registration of an FIR or e-FIR, accompanied by proper documentation and due process.
Protecting Individual Rights and Ensuring Accountability
The new guidelines caution against the unnecessary freezing of accounts, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding individuals' rights to livelihood and privacy. Investigating officers are tasked with tracing the complete money trail and assessing whether account holders are complicit or victims, such as in instances of hacked or mule accounts.
Furthermore, the SOP calls for enhanced inter-state coordination, digital verification processes, and accountability at all levels. Senior officials have been assigned the responsibility of ensuring uniform implementation and providing necessary training to personnel.
Objectives and Expected Outcomes
According to police statements, the SOP is designed to bring clarity, accountability, and efficiency to the handling of cyber fraud cases. By streamlining procedures and setting clear timelines, it aims to safeguard the interests of both victims and account holders, ultimately improving the overall response to financial crimes in the digital age.
