Cybercrime – Dantewada Police Bust Interstate Mule Account Fraud Network
Cybercrime – The Dantewada police in Chhattisgarh have uncovered and dismantled a well-organized interstate cyber fraud network that was deeply involved in trading mule bank accounts, marking a major breakthrough in tackling rising digital crimes.
Arrests Made After Multi-State Investigation
Acting on intelligence inputs and sustained technical surveillance, the police arrested four key suspects from different locations in Rajasthan. They were later brought to Dantewada under transit remand for further questioning. Officials described the arrests as a significant step toward curbing cyber-enabled financial crimes that have been affecting victims across several states in India.
How the Fraud Network Operated
Investigators revealed that the group operated a large-scale racket involving the buying and selling of bank accounts, commonly known as mule accounts. These accounts were used to receive funds obtained through various online scams. Once the money was deposited, it was quickly withdrawn, often through international ATM transactions using debit cards with high withdrawal limits.
The accused reportedly used messaging platforms to coordinate their activities, often registering accounts with international mobile numbers to avoid detection. This allowed them to communicate securely while facilitating illegal financial transactions across borders.
Police Team and Operation Details
The operation was led by senior officials, including Superintendent of Police Gaurav Rai, Additional SP R.K. Barman, and Cyber Cell Nodal Officer DSP Gaurav Singh. A dedicated team comprising officers from Barsur, Bacheli, and Gidam police stations was deployed to Rajasthan earlier this month to track down the suspects.
Through detailed financial tracking and the use of advanced cyber forensic techniques, the team successfully identified and apprehended the individuals involved. Authorities emphasized that such coordinated efforts are essential in tackling increasingly sophisticated cybercrime networks.
Identity of the Accused and Seized Materials
The four arrested individuals have been identified as Archit Gujarati (20) and Adil Hussain (24), both residents of Nagaur; Amit Verma (21) from Jaipur; and Bhupendra Jangid (23) from Jodhpur. All are residents of Rajasthan and are believed to have played active roles in managing and distributing mule accounts.
During the operation, police recovered several items linked to the fraudulent activities, including mobile phones, SIM cards, ATM cards, and cash amounting to Rs 1,18,500. Authorities stated that the seized materials are crucial evidence in building the case against the accused.
Cases Registered Across Multiple States
According to officials, the network is linked to more than 20 cyber fraud cases registered in different parts of the country. These include Chhattisgarh, Andhra Pradesh, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Kerala, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, and Karnataka.
The widespread nature of the complaints highlights the scale at which the group was operating and the extent of its reach across India. Investigators believe more individuals may be involved, and further arrests cannot be ruled out.
Awareness Efforts to Prevent Cyber Fraud
Police officials noted that the racket was largely operated from the Nagaur region of Rajasthan. In response, the Dantewada police have intensified awareness campaigns in rural and urban areas alike. These initiatives aim to educate the public about common cyber threats, including online banking fraud, fake job offers, and scams involving OTP sharing or suspicious links.
Authorities urged citizens to remain cautious while sharing personal or financial information online and to report suspicious activities promptly. They stressed that public awareness remains one of the most effective tools in preventing cybercrime.