Gorakhpur/Lucknow: A major cyber fraud network has been exposed in eastern Uttar Pradesh, where more than 50 “mule accounts” were used to siphon off and circulate crores of rupees obtained through illegal means. Investigations reveal that the gang operated across Gorakhpur, Lucknow, and Chitrakoot, executing cyber crimes in a highly organized manner. Authorities are now working to trace the kingpin behind the entire operation.
Fake government scheme lure turned innocent account holders into crime conduits
According to the probe, the gang functioned with a structured strategy. The accused lured individuals by promising benefits under government schemes and got bank accounts opened in their names. These accounts were then used to transfer and layer money obtained from cyber fraud. Such accounts are commonly referred to as “mule accounts,” which are primarily used for illegal financial transactions.
Those arrested in the case include Ravi Singh alias Ramdas, Rituraj Yadav, Divyanshu Singh alias Sahil, Anuj Vishwakarma alias Shubham, Omkar Agrahari alias Ajit, Rahul Singh, and Aditya Chaudhary alias Saurabh. Investigators found that some of the accused were operating from different districts, indicating the wide reach and coordination within the network.
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Passbooks, ATM cards and cheque books were seized as the gang spread
During interrogation, it was revealed that the gang was being operated under the direction of Omkar Agrahari alias Ajit and Rituraj Yadav. They used other members to trap individuals and get accounts opened. Once the accounts were created, passbooks, ATM cards, and cheque books were taken into their possession, leaving the account holders with no control over their own accounts.
A key figure identified in the investigation is “John Baba,” believed to be the technical handler of the racket. He allegedly routed the fraud money into these mule accounts and later withdrew or transferred it through multiple channels. Officials say he is a crucial link in the network, and efforts to track him down have been intensified.
Authorities have found evidence of transactions worth crores of rupees through these accounts. Officials believe the funds may be linked to multiple cyber crimes, including online fraud, fake calls, and digital payment scams. The rapid movement of money across accounts made tracking extremely difficult.
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Investigating agencies are now conducting a detailed analysis of all transactions linked to these accounts. Efforts are also underway to identify beneficiaries and other individuals associated with the network. Initial findings suggest that the racket could be spread across multiple states.
Cyber experts say mule accounts have become a critical component of modern cybercrime. Renowned cybercrime expert and former IPS officer Prof. Triveni Singh noted that cybercriminals avoid using their own identities and instead exploit accounts of unsuspecting individuals. He emphasized that such operations are a form of social engineering, where victims are manipulated into becoming part of the crime without fully realizing it.
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The case once again highlights the need for individuals to remain cautious about the use of their bank accounts and personal documents. Opening or handing over bank accounts in exchange for commissions or under false promises can lead to serious financial and legal consequences.
At present, efforts are ongoing to locate the kingpin and other absconding members of the gang. Officials believe that the entire network will soon be dismantled. The crackdown not only marks a significant step against cybercriminals but also serves as a strong warning for the public that vigilance remains the most effective safeguard in the digital age.
