Authorities have launched a large-scale, multi-layered operation to curb the rising incidents of cyber fraud in the district. As part of the crackdown, more than 1,000 suspicious ‘mule’ bank accounts have been brought under investigation amid suspicions that these accounts were being used to launder money obtained through online fraud.
24 Arrested, 1,000 Mule Accounts Probed in 45 Days
Police officials said 24 cyber fraud suspects have been arrested and sent to jail in the past one and a half months. Efforts are also underway to make more arrests in other cases. Officials stated that the focus of the operation has shifted from merely arresting criminals to dismantling the entire fraud network and blocking illegal financial flows.
Certified Cyber Crime Investigator Course Launched by Centre for Police Technology
100+ POS Agents Investigated
Investigations have revealed that several bank accounts and SIM cards were being operated using forged documents. In connection with this, more than 100 POS agents have been identified on suspicion of helping fraudsters obtain bank accounts and mobile SIM cards. A verification drive is being conducted at the police station level, and legal action has been ordered against those found involved. The operation began with action against two Jan Seva Kendra operators in the Akrabad area.
Police have also identified certain bank branches and ATMs from where fraud money was allegedly withdrawn. In addition, several villages have been marked due to suspected cyber fraud activity originating from those locations. Cybercriminals often use fake names, addresses, mobile numbers, and fraudulent bank accounts, making their detection more difficult.
FIRs Now in 30 Minutes
The district has also accelerated the process of registering cybercrime FIRs. Earlier, filing a cybercrime complaint took an average of about 20 hours, but now the process has been reduced to around 30 minutes. Direct FIR registration and swift arrest procedures have been ordered in all cases. Recently, police arrested 12 suspects and shut down around 600 WhatsApp groups, thereby protecting nearly 150,000 people from potential fraud.
20-Point SOP & Awareness Drive to Dismantle Fraud Networks
An awareness campaign has also been launched to prevent cybercrime. Letters have been sent to lead bank managers seeking lists of account holders who maintain high balances and could become targets of cyber fraud. Based on these lists, police station-level cyber security committees will be formed, led by retired personnel. Separate WhatsApp groups will also be created to educate people about cyber fraud methods and preventive measures.
The cybercrime nodal officer has issued a 20-point Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for all police station in-charges. The guidelines include verification of bank accounts, document authentication, and monitoring of suspicious activities. If any lapse is found at any level, immediate legal action will be initiated.
Police officials said the strategy to control cybercrime will not be limited to arresting criminals alone but will also focus on disrupting their network and financial ecosystem. Efforts are also being made to directly protect vulnerable groups by creating awareness and strengthening cybersecurity measures. Authorities hope that this comprehensive campaign will significantly reduce cyber fraud incidents in the district.
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.
