Bhubaneswar: In a significant push against cybercrime and financial fraud, Odisha witnessed a major breakthrough under the state-wide drive ‘Operation Cyber Kavach’. The month-long operation resulted in the arrest of 379 accused, while thousands of bank accounts and networks were investigated, dealing a strong blow to organized cyber fraud operations.
Conducted between February 13 and March 12, the operation specifically targeted mule bank accounts and fake SIM networks, which are considered the backbone of cyber fraud. During the drive, a total of 39,714 bank accounts were verified, many of which were found to be involved in suspicious transactions and fraudulent activities.
Out of the 379 arrested individuals, 349 were directly linked to mule accounts. Others were involved in fake SIM usage, illegal ATM withdrawals, and cheque-related frauds. Authorities also issued notices to 7,549 suspected individuals, whose roles are currently under investigation.
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Simultaneous raids across districts
The operation was carried out simultaneously across key districts including Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Sambalpur, and Ganjam. Coordinated raids led to the busting of several inter-state gangs engaged in online betting, hawala transactions, and cryptocurrency-related crimes.
A large number of SIM cards, ATM cards, banking documents, and digital devices were seized during the investigation. Investigations revealed that these gangs operated through a widespread network across different states, using fake accounts to transfer and withdraw money while masking their identities.
Well-organized cyber fraud network uncovered
Preliminary findings indicate that cyber criminals systematically created mule accounts using the identities of unsuspecting or economically vulnerable individuals. These accounts were then handed over to the gang in exchange for commissions. Similarly, fake SIM cards were used to establish digital identities, making it difficult to trace transactions.
The defrauded money was routed through multiple layers of accounts before being withdrawn in cash or converted into cryptocurrency. Officials believe such structured networks are a major driver of organized cybercrime and require sustained action.
Operation driven by strategic planning
The operation was launched following a high-level review, with coordinated instructions issued across districts to identify and act against suspicious activities. Continuous surveillance and targeted raids enabled authorities to dismantle key elements of the network. Renowned cyber crime expert and former IPS officer Prof. Triveni Singh said,
“Mule accounts and fake SIM cards have become the backbone of cybercrime. Unless these networks are dismantled, it is difficult to completely curb online fraud. Such operations strike at the core of organized cyber gangs.”
He also advised the public to avoid sharing their bank account details or mobile numbers with unknown individuals, as such information is often exploited by cyber criminals.
Further action to continue
Authorities have indicated that similar drives like ‘Operation Cyber Kavach’ will continue in the future to eliminate cybercrime networks at their roots. Detailed analysis of seized digital data and bank accounts is underway to identify more suspects.
Citizens have also been urged to remain vigilant and avoid falling prey to suspicious calls, messages, or online offers, and to report any such incidents promptly.
