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LUCKNOW: The Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) has tightened its grip on a network accused of selling email IDs to Pakistani and Bangladeshi nationals for sending bomb threats across various Indian cities. During its ongoing investigation, the agency uncovered evidence against three to four associates of arrested accused Ankit Shankhwar, a resident of Kanpur. Most of these newly identified suspects also hail from Kanpur and allegedly helped create and sell nearly 22 lakh email IDs abroad. Officials indicated that the ATS is preparing to arrest these suspects soon.
The case stems from the arrest of Ankit Shankhwar on October 28. Investigators revealed that Shankhwar generated around 22 lakh email accounts and sold them to individuals in Pakistan and Bangladesh. These accounts were subsequently used to issue bomb threats in multiple cities across the country. Following his arrest, the ATS examined Shankhwar’s electronic devices, which yielded crucial leads regarding several people who remained in regular contact with him during the operation.
Technical Assistance and Digital Evidence
A closer scrutiny of the seized devices confirmed the involvement of three to four key individuals in the broader conspiracy. According to investigators, these associates provided technical assistance to Shankhwar at various stages of the operation, facilitating the bulk creation and overseas distribution of the email accounts. To establish their exact roles, the investigating agency has compiled call detail records, WhatsApp chats, and other digital evidence. Preparations are currently underway to take these named associates into custody based on the gathered proof.
Cryptocurrency Trail Under Scrutiny
The financial investigation has revealed that the proceeds from selling the email IDs were received in cryptocurrency. To convert and route these funds, the bank accounts of Shankhwar and his associates were utilized. Investigators found that the money was not deposited into a single account directly, but was instead routed through multiple bank accounts in several phases to obscure the trail. The ATS has obtained the details of all the accounts involved in these multi-layered transactions to trace the complete flow of funds.
Account Holders Face Action
Alongside the technical associates, the role of the various bank account holders is now under the scanner of the investigating agency. Officials stated that the ATS is verifying the extent of each account holder’s involvement in routing the illegal proceeds. The agency has made it clear that strict legal action will be taken against any account holder found to be complicit in the network’s financial transactions. Further arrests and financial disclosures are expected as the ATS widens its probe into the cross-border threat network.
