Gujarat Police Cracks Down on Major Cyberfraud Network in Vadodara
In a significant breakthrough, sleuths from the Cyber Centre of Excellence (CCE) of Gujarat Police have arrested six individuals in Vadodara for allegedly running an extensive network that arranged bank accounts and withdrew money obtained through cyberfraud. The operation has uncovered fraudulent transactions totaling a staggering Rs 210 crore, highlighting the scale of this criminal enterprise.
Massive Financial Impact and Numerous Complaints
According to official statements from the CCE, the bank accounts linked to this network were involved in fraudulent transactions amounting to Rs 210 crore. The national cybercrime helpline, 1930, has received 273 complaints of cyberfraud where these specific bank accounts were utilized, indicating a widespread impact on victims across the region.
Modus Operandi of the Accused
Investigators revealed that the accused employed a sophisticated method to facilitate their illegal activities. They opened bank accounts in the names of "money mules" and collected the associated bank account kits, which included debit cards and chequebooks. Additionally, they obtained SIM cards and linked the mobile numbers to these accounts, enabling them to operate the accounts seamlessly and withdraw funds defrauded through various online scams.
An analysis of 11 mobile phones seized from the accused during the raid uncovered details of approximately 50 bank accounts that were actively used in these fraudulent operations. This digital evidence has been crucial in piecing together the network's operations.
Key Arrests and Roles in the Racket
Police have identified Deepesh Rajpurohit, also known as Montu, as the mastermind behind this elaborate racket. Investigators stated that he coordinated the entire network responsible for opening and operating the bank accounts, personally managing about 40 suspicious bank accounts.
The other individuals arrested in connection with this case are:
- Adul Kabir Mohammed Ilyas Pathan
- Vivek Vanzara
- Mayank Bairwa
- Rohit Verma
- Mohit Raval
Police officials confirmed that these individuals played key roles in facilitating the opening of bank accounts, arranging money mules, withdrawing illicit funds, and operating the accounts to execute the fraud.
Wide Range of Cybercrimes Involved
The bank accounts were allegedly utilized in a diverse array of cybercrimes, demonstrating the network's versatility in exploiting victims. These included:
- 'Digital arrest' scams
- Investment fraud schemes
- Loan-related fraud operations
- UPI-linked scams
- Deposit and loan fraud tactics
- Part-time job scams
- Online gaming fraud
This case underscores the growing threat of cyberfraud in India and the importance of robust law enforcement measures to combat such crimes. The Gujarat Police's proactive action serves as a warning to similar networks operating in the region.
