The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has arrested a key operative linked to a transnational cyber extortion syndicate following simultaneous search operations in Ahmedabad and Mumbai. The raids, carried out on June 25, 2025, were part of Operation Chakra-V, the CBI’s ongoing initiative to disrupt global cybercrime networks. The suspect, apprehended in Mumbai on June 26, is allegedly a central figure in a fraud network that duped foreign nationals, particularly from the United States and Canada, by impersonating government officials and using threats to extract crypto-based payments.
Inside the Fraud Network: Lavish Lifestyles, Forged IDs, and Crypto Trails
During the raids, investigators uncovered a highly organized infrastructure used to execute the cyber frauds. Evidence seized included telecom equipment, pre-written scam scripts, forged identity badges, and counterfeit ID cards claiming affiliation with Canadian law enforcement. Authorities also confiscated Virtual Digital Assets worth USD 45,000, and noted the suspect’s luxurious lifestyle—marked by expensive vehicles, designer items, frequent international travel, and unaccounted wealth.
The gang reportedly extorted victims by falsely implicating them in legal troubles and demanding hush payments through crypto channels. This case highlights the evolving nature of cyber-enabled financial crime and the use of virtual currencies to obfuscate illegal proceeds.
U.S. Connection: “Royal Tiger Gang” Flagged by FCC as Major Threat
The United States Federal Communications Commission (FCC) had earlier flagged the “Royal Tiger Gang,” allegedly run by the arrested individual, as a significant threat under its Consumer Communication Information Services Threat (C-CIST) framework. The gang was known for making unlawful robocalls, impersonating officials from banks, government bodies, and utility services to manipulate and defraud American consumers.
The CBI confirmed the accused has been produced in court and is currently under four-day remand for further interrogation.
The CBI reaffirmed its dedication to fighting cyber-financial crime and announced that investigations are ongoing. The agency emphasized the need for international collaboration to dismantle such networks, given their transnational nature and the global reach of digital fraud.