Jhansi police on Tuesday apprehended seven individuals aged between 22 and 26 for allegedly defrauding people through Chinese gaming applications. The authorities have frozen more than Rs 4.25 crore across 19 bank accounts where the accused had stashed the illicit funds.
Details of the Arrest and Seizures
In addition to freezing the accounts, police confiscated eight mobile phones, multiple SIM cards, a cheque book, and ATM cards used in the fraudulent operations. Investigators have also gathered details of 114 mule bank accounts that were instrumental in executing the scams.
The arrested suspects have been identified as Ragib Ahmed, Sunny Amarya, Sohail Khan, Anubhav Singh, Danish Khan, Saurabh Vishwakarma, and Devesh Kumar Gautam. According to SSP Jhansi, BBGTS Murthy, all seven hail from Jhansi, while three other accomplices remain at large.
Modus Operandi of the Cyber Fraud Network
The gang operated a sophisticated cyber fraud network, enticing victims with promises of high returns on investments. The proceeds were then funneled through the 114 mule accounts. The mastermind, identified as Dhruv, operated from Indore and managed the website and gaming apps. Another key member, Ragib, used an Indonesian mobile SIM card to transfer funds to mule accounts, while other gang members lured people into sharing their bank accounts or investing money.
Police have also traced illegal transactions where the stolen money was allegedly converted into 37,966 US dollars and 22,081,308 Chinese Yuan. The accused recruited mule account holders by offering small payments, often under Rs 500, which are typically not reported as cyber fraud, allowing the scheme to go unnoticed.
Ongoing Investigation and Public Advisory
The investigation is ongoing, with authorities working to track down the absconding suspects and further dismantle the network. Police urge the public to remain vigilant against such fraudulent schemes and report any suspicious investment offers.
