Cybercrime – East Kutch Police Uncover Rs 44 Crore Fraud Network
Cybercrime – The East Kutch District Police have uncovered a large cyber fraud operation as part of the Gujarat government’s ongoing “Operation Mule Hunt 2.0”, exposing a network allegedly linked to suspicious financial transactions worth nearly Rs 44 crore. Officials shared details of the development on Wednesday, highlighting the scale of the investigation and the recovery of critical financial records.
Intelligence-Led Operation Leads to Arrests
According to police authorities, the investigation was launched after the Cyber Crime Police Station received specific intelligence inputs and gathered information through field-based sources. Acting on these findings, law enforcement teams conducted a targeted operation that resulted in the detention of members believed to be connected to an interstate cybercrime syndicate.
Superintendent of Police (East Kutch) Sagar Bagmar said the state government’s anti-cybercrime initiative has enabled investigators to take focused action against organized fraud networks. So far, four suspects have been taken into custody, while efforts continue to locate additional individuals linked to the case.
Large Number of Suspected Mule Accounts Identified
During the course of the investigation, officers recovered a significant amount of digital financial information. Preliminary analysis of the seized records revealed details connected to approximately 105 suspected mule bank accounts.
Authorities stated that transactions routed through these accounts amounted to nearly Rs 44 crore. Investigators believe the accounts were used to move money obtained through various cyber fraud activities, helping criminals conceal the origin and destination of funds.
Victims Spread Across Multiple States
Initial findings indicate that the alleged fraud network targeted individuals in several parts of the country. Investigators suspect that the accused used a coordinated system to channel proceeds from cybercrime operations conducted across different states.
Police officials noted that the operation appears to have a wider reach than initially expected. Evidence gathered during the probe suggests the network may have maintained connections beyond India’s borders, raising concerns about international involvement.
Possible Overseas Connections Under Examination
Authorities have identified indications that certain activities linked to the network may have extended outside India. Investigators are examining potential links connected to Sri Lanka as part of the ongoing inquiry.
Officials emphasized that these findings remain part of the preliminary investigation and that further verification is underway. The Cyber Crime Branch is continuing to analyze financial records, digital evidence, and communication trails to establish the full extent of the operation.
Case Registered Under Relevant Laws
Police have registered a formal case under applicable provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Information Technology Act. While four accused individuals have been arrested, four other suspects are currently absconding.
Law enforcement agencies are carrying out coordinated efforts to track down the remaining accused and identify any additional participants who may have played a role in the alleged scheme.
Investigation Continues
Officials said the inquiry remains active and several aspects of the financial network are still being examined. Investigators are working to map transaction routes, identify beneficiaries, and determine whether more accounts were used in the movement of illicit funds.
Police have reiterated that further action will depend on evidence collected during the ongoing investigation. Authorities expect additional details to emerge as forensic analysis and financial scrutiny continue.