Bareilly: In a major breakthrough against an alleged transnational cybercrime syndicate, Bareilly Police have arrested five individuals, including a homoeopathic doctor, for operating a sophisticated online fraud network reportedly linked to handlers based in China. The gang is accused of executing large-scale digital scams across multiple states using advanced cyber tools, fake investment schemes, and psychological intimidation tactics.
According to police officials, the accused arrested are Shakib Ali, Rajkumar, Ashish Singh, Dr Sachendra Kumar (BHMS), and Bablu alias Madhoram. The arrests were made after a tip-off, leading to the interception of a suspicious car near Krishna Colony Road, where all suspects were taken into custody.
Fake Trading Dreams, Real Financial Nightmare:
Preliminary investigation suggests that the network was part of a wider international cybercrime ecosystem operating through encrypted WhatsApp groups. The alleged mastermind, Sumeet, remains absconding. Police believe he maintained direct links with China-based cyber operators who supplied technical tools, APK files, and structured modules used for executing online frauds across India.
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WhatsApp Groups, APK Files and Fear Tactics Reveal a Chilling Cybercrime Playbook
The syndicate allegedly used multiple methods, including fake trading investment platforms, malware-loaded APK files, and the so-called “digital arrest” technique, where victims were threatened with fabricated legal action to force immediate money transfers. The method reportedly relied heavily on psychological pressure and fear-based manipulation.
During the investigation, police recovered mobile phones, laptops, bank documents, debit cards, cheque books, and large volumes of digital data. Several devices contained sensitive banking credentials and victim-related financial information, indicating a wide network of targeted fraud.
Doctor Under Scanner as Fraud Money Allegedly Moved Through 22 Bank Accounts
Authorities revealed that Dr Sachendra Kumar played a key role in the financial operations of the syndicate. He allegedly operated a trust named “SR Sons and Group Trust,” which was used to route fraudulent funds through 22 different bank accounts. These accounts were reportedly used to transfer and layer money obtained from victims across multiple states, including Kerala and others.
Officials stated that the network functioned in a highly organized hierarchy. Some members were responsible for opening bank accounts using fake identities, while others handled transactions and cash withdrawals. The proceeds were distributed through a commission-based system, with the primary handler receiving the largest share.
During interrogation, accused Shakib Ali reportedly admitted that he learned cyber fraud techniques from inmates during his earlier association with Tihar Jail. He further stated that the group later expanded its operations by recruiting additional members and forming a structured cybercrime unit.
Police also recovered weapons, mobile devices, ATM cards, identity documents, and other incriminating materials from the accused. These items are currently being analyzed to trace additional financial transactions and identify more victims linked to the network.
Mastermind on the Run, International Links Under Lens as Probe Widens
Investigators confirmed that the gang generated fraudulent transactions worth approximately ₹1.55 crore through trading-related scams alone. The use of trust-based banking structures reportedly allowed large-scale fund movement without immediate detection by financial monitoring systems.
Cyber investigation further revealed that the group operated through encrypted WhatsApp channels where training material and APK-based hacking tools were shared. One such malicious application was allegedly used to extract SMS data and gain access to victims’ banking information.
Cybercrime expert and former IPS officer Prof. Triveni Singh, commenting on the case, said such networks are increasingly combining advanced technology with psychological manipulation. He noted that
“digital arrest tactics and APK-based malware are being used together to create fear and extract money within minutes, making these scams highly dangerous and fast-moving.”
Police believe the network may have deeper international linkages, and efforts are underway to trace additional members and financial beneficiaries. Multiple cybercrime complaints registered across various states are also being cross-verified to map the full extent of the racket.
All five accused have been sent to judicial custody, while raids continue to arrest the absconding mastermind, Sumeet and other associates. Officials indicated that further arrests are likely as investigations progress into the wider international cyber fraud network.
