Amid a surge in cybercrime, Ghazipur Police’s Cyber Crime Cell has arrested three members of an inter-state syndicate. Investigation revealed that the gang defrauded people across 25 states in 75 cases under the pretense of investments, trading, and gaming. The accused siphoned off ₹67 crore using 700 fake bank accounts.
Gang’s Deceptive Operations via ‘Crown Pay’
According to police sources, the gang operated through a company called ‘Crown Pay’ and lured victims via Telegram, offering attractive investment, trading, and gaming opportunities. Several individuals were persuaded to open fake accounts so that defrauded money could be routed through them, with the promise of lucrative commissions.
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Profiles of the Arrested Accused
The arrested accused are—Rishiraj, a diploma engineer; Rohan Kumar, a contract employee at DRDO Delhi; and Sachin Singh, a postgraduate in science. The three are linked to Chandauli, Ghazipur, and Sonbhadra. They were apprehended near Lanka Maidan. During the search, authorities recovered 19 SIM cards, 12 ATM cards, five passbooks, one cheque book, five mobile phones, a company stamp and seal, and GST and MSME-related documents.
Modus Operandi and Laundering Tactics
During interrogation, the accused revealed their modus operandi. Gang members encouraged people across states to open fake accounts using their Aadhaar, PAN, and photographs. MSME certificates were obtained, current accounts were opened with GST numbers, and bank account details—including internet banking IDs, passwords, registered emails, and mobile numbers—were shared with the gang via Telegram. APK files were also used to intercept OTPs and other messages.
Crypto trading platforms were also used for laundering. Each accused maintained a separate ID on the platforms. Investigation revealed that Sachin and Rohan earned ₹2.5 crore and ₹1.75 crore respectively, and approximately 24 fake accounts were actively used in the fraud.
Expert Warnings and Ongoing Probe
Experts have expressed concern over the case. Renowned cybercrime expert and former IPS officer Prof. Triveni Singh stated, “Cyber gangs can easily siphon large sums using social engineering and fake accounts. Cases like these require not just technical investigation but also heightened public vigilance.”
Given the scale of the syndicate, the Cyber Crime Headquarters in Lucknow and the Ministry of Home Affairs have been informed. The Ghazipur Cyber Crime Cell is still analyzing complaints and investigation results.
This case serves as a warning to citizens: do not accept investment or online earning opportunities without proper verification. Experts advise being extremely cautious while sharing personal and banking information online.
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities say more accomplices and members of the gang are expected to be identified soon. This arrest underscores the importance of vigilance and effective investigation to combat cybercrime.
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.
