Acting swiftly on a digital tip, the cybercrime unit of Giridih Police successfully apprehended two individuals involved in a sophisticated online fraud scheme. The operation, which unfolded on Thursday, was initiated based on crucial information received through the Pratibimb citizen reporting portal.
Tip-Off Leads to Riverbank Raid
Deputy Superintendent of Police (Cybercrime) Abid Khan stated that the police received specific intelligence about a group operating from concealed locations near the Usri River bridge. The suspects were allegedly hiding in bushes along the Main Road leading to Taratand, using mobile phones to execute their fraudulent activities. A dedicated police team immediately mobilized and conducted a raid at the identified spot.
Modus Operandi of the Accused
The arrested individuals have been identified as Rohit Kumar Sharma (19) and Ranjit Kumar Yadav (26). Both hail from Pratappur village, which falls under the jurisdiction of the Jamua police station. During preliminary interrogation, the duo confessed to their method of operation.
Their scam involved entering random mobile numbers into various digital payment applications to identify active UPI IDs. Once a potential target was found, they would contact the user directly. Posing as bank representatives or customer care officials, they would then deceive people into revealing sensitive information or authorizing transactions, thereby siphoning off their money.
Seized Items and Ongoing Investigation
Police investigations revealed that the defrauded funds were funneled through an online gaming application, a common tactic to obscure the money trail. From the accused, the police have seized critical evidence, including two mobile phones, eight SIM cards, and a motorcycle used in the commission of the crime.
DSP Abid Khan confirmed that the probe is actively continuing. Authorities are now working to trace and identify other potential members of this cyber fraud network to dismantle it completely. This arrest highlights the effectiveness of community-police cooperation through platforms like the Pratibimb portal in combating cybercrime in the region.
