Bhubaneswar | In a major crackdown on cybercrime, Odisha Police have arrested 328 individuals and examined 31,498 mule (benami) bank accounts as part of a state-wide special operation named Operation Cyber Kavach. The initiative, launched under the directions of DGP Yogesh Bahadur Khurania, aimed to identify fraudulent accounts used for financial scams and take stringent legal action against perpetrators.
District-level SPs and DCPs supervised cybercrime units across the state to ensure the effective identification and monitoring of suspicious bank accounts. The operation has so far led to investigations in 1,090 cyber fraud cases, 34 ATM withdrawal-related frauds, 35 cheque withdrawal incidents, and 23 cases involving fake SIM cards or POS devices. Notices were also issued to 6,532 suspected account holders and associates linked to 183 FIRs.
FCRF Launches Flagship Certified Fraud Investigator (CFI) Program
Several districts reported significant progress in the drive. Puri Police detected one benami account, registered a case, and arrested three accused. Rourkela Police examined 22 accounts, registered four cases, and issued notices to three individuals. Bhubaneswar Police checked 12 accounts, registered one case, arrested one individual, and issued notices to four others. Cuttack Police recorded a cheque withdrawal fraud case.
Other districts also contributed to the operation: Nayagarh Police scrutinized 82 accounts and issued 30 notices; Mayurbhanj Police checked 20 accounts and issued 18 notices; Berhampur Police examined 80 accounts and issued 80 notices; Boudh Police scrutinized seven accounts and issued seven notices. Balangir, Subarnapur, Balasore, and Bhadrak Police also carried out extensive checks, while Ganjam, Kalahandi, Koraput, Malkangiri, and Nuapada Police reported their respective inspections and notices issued.
The operation highlighted the scale of cyber fraud and the extensive network of mule accounts used to transfer illicit funds. Police officers emphasized that the use of benami accounts makes tracing the money flow and identifying main perpetrators challenging, necessitating coordinated monitoring and continuous technical investigation.
DGP Khurania stated that Odisha Police remains committed to securing digital transactions across the state and will further intensify campaigns to build a cybercrime-free environment. He urged citizens to remain vigilant in their online financial dealings and report any suspicious activity immediately.
Cybercrime experts noted that criminal networks are increasingly exploiting digital infrastructure, including fake accounts, fraudulent ATM and cheque transactions, and unauthorized SIM/PoS devices, to carry out financial fraud. They advised citizens to regularly monitor their bank statements, verify account transactions, and exercise caution when responding to unknown calls, messages, or requests for personal financial information.
With Operation Cyber Kavach, Odisha Police have demonstrated a proactive and organized approach to tackling cybercrime. The drive not only disrupted existing fraudulent networks but also sent a strong message to cybercriminals operating across the state. Investigations are ongoing to uncover additional suspects and extend the crackdown on fraudulent financial operations.
The operation underscores the growing importance of digital security awareness and highlights the need for continuous surveillance and public vigilance to combat cyber fraud. Authorities reaffirmed that collaborative action, both from law enforcement and citizens, is essential to secure the state’s digital financial ecosystem and prevent large-scale scams.
This initiative has been widely acknowledged as a critical step in Odisha’s fight against cybercrime, illustrating the state police’s focus on safeguarding online transactions and preventing financial exploitation through technological vigilance and stringent legal action.
About the author — Suvedita Nath is a science student with a growing interest in cybercrime and digital safety. She writes on online activity, cyber threats, and technology-driven risks. Her work focuses on clarity, accuracy, and public awareness.
