Karnataka Cyber Command Launches Major Statewide Crackdown on Fraud Networks
In a decisive move against the escalating threat of cybercrime, the Cyber Command Centre of Karnataka has executed a comprehensive statewide operation, resulting in the arrest of 13 key individuals identified as masterminds behind a sophisticated fraud network. The operation, which targeted mule account operations, has exposed a vast web of financial deception impacting thousands.
Uncovering a Network of "Mule Herders" and Over 40,000 Compromised Accounts
According to Director General of Police (Cyber Command) Ponab Mohanty, the intensive investigation revealed a network of so-called "mule herders" who are suspected of aggregating and managing more than 42,000 bank accounts. These accounts, belonging to often unsuspecting individuals, were systematically exploited to siphon off illicit funds.
Mohanty detailed that the accused operated by contacting individuals and persuading them to provide access to their bank accounts, frequently by collecting personal identity documents. In numerous instances, people were financially incentivized, receiving payments ranging from Rs 10,000 to Rs 15,000 to either open new accounts or share access to existing ones.
Simultaneous Raids Across 29 Districts Yield Significant Seizures
The crackdown involved meticulously coordinated simultaneous raids at over 100 locations across 29 districts in Karnataka on February 5 and 6. This large-scale operation led to the registration of approximately 17 First Information Reports (FIRs) and the arrest of the 13 primary accused.
During these raids, law enforcement officials seized substantial evidence, including 25 debit cards, 13 cheque books, 12 mobile phones, and various other items crucial to the investigation. Mohanty confirmed that the raids are ongoing, with expectations of more FIRs and additional arrests in the coming days.
How the Mule Account Operation Functioned
The investigation uncovered a layered criminal structure. The arrested "mule herders" allegedly acted as retail agents, identifying and gaining control of bank accounts from ordinary citizens. These compromised accounts were then sold or contracted out to broader cybercrime networks.
- The accounts were utilized to facilitate a range of illegal financial activities.
- Primary uses included executing online scams, facilitating illegal betting operations, and carrying out digital arrest scams.
- Many genuine account holders were completely unaware that their financial details were being used for fraudulent money transfers, leaving them exposed to severe legal and financial repercussions.
A Follow-Up to Digital Arrest Cases and a Warning to the Public
Police authorities stated that this operation was part of intensified efforts to combat the rising tide of cyber fraud and served as a direct follow-up to previous cases involving digital arrests. The crackdown highlights the sophisticated methods employed by cybercriminals to exploit financial systems.
The public is strongly advised to exercise extreme caution with their personal and banking information. Citizens are urged to report any suspicious transactions or unsolicited requests for account access immediately to the authorities to prevent falling victim to such schemes.
