Shivpuri district in Madhya Pradesh is emerging as a cybercrime hotspot after police busted an organised sextortion racket and arrested 20 accused. The gang allegedly used fake female profiles to lure victims into explicit video chats and then impersonated police officers to extort money.
The crackdown was carried out under the statewide “Operation Matrix.” Investigators said the accused first contacted targets through WhatsApp and multiple mobile apps, recorded obscene video calls, and then threatened victims with fabricated charges such as rape or child pornography. Money was demanded in the name of a “settlement” and routed through mule bank accounts.
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Multiple apps used to trap victims
Police said the gang used apps including HIIU, Tokki, MIKA, ELOELO, GAGA, HANI, SUGO, COMMECTO, HITSU, HONEY and COMET to identify and engage targets. Conversations began through fake accounts in women’s names, followed by video calls. Another gang member would then call posing as a police officer and demand immediate payment to avoid arrest.
Four FIRs in a week, 32 accused named
Four FIRs were registered within a week in Karera and Bhonti police station areas, naming 32 accused. So far, 20 have been arrested. On February 20, Karera police raided a location where suspects were allegedly impersonating police officers, detaining 10 people while seven escaped. A similar raid in Bhonti the same day led to the arrest of another 10 suspects.
Two additional cases involving credit card fraud and fake loan scams were also registered, indicating the gang’s involvement in multiple forms of cybercrime.
Phones, ATM cards and vehicles seized
Police recovered 29 mobile phones, seven cars, one motorcycle, 16 ATM cards, seven bank passbooks, a property registry document and ₹1.2 lakh in cash. The total value of seized assets is estimated at ₹1.07 crore. Investigators said multiple SIM cards and vehicles were used to operate from different locations, suggesting a coordinated network rather than isolated individuals.
Youth drawn by quick money and flashy lifestyle
The probe also revealed that some local youths were attracted to cybercrime by the lure of quick money and visible lifestyle changes — SUVs, high-end smartphones and branded clothing. Police said the perception of cyber fraud as “easy income” is a growing concern.
More arrests likely
Digital evidence, bank transactions, mule account holders and SIM suppliers are being traced. Police have urged citizens to avoid explicit video chats with strangers and to report any blackmail attempt immediately to the cyber helpline 1930.
The investigation into the Shivpuri sextortion network is ongoing, and further arrests are expected.
About the author – Ayesha Aayat is a law student and contributor covering cybercrime, online frauds, and digital safety concerns. Her writing aims to raise awareness about evolving cyber threats and legal responses.
