Rajkot (Gujarat): A massive cyber fraud network has been exposed in Gujarat’s Rajkot district, with the total suspicious transactions now estimated to exceed ₹2,500 crore. Police have arrested 20 individuals so far, including three private bank officials, in a major crackdown under “Operation Mule Hunt,” aimed at dismantling organized cybercrime networks operating across India.
The case, which initially appeared to involve around ₹1,500 crore, has expanded significantly as the investigation progressed. Authorities now believe the financial trail is far larger, involving multiple layers of fraudulent accounts, agents, and cross-state transactions.
Bank officials under scanner
Among those arrested are three employees of private banks, accused of playing a key role in facilitating the creation and operation of suspicious bank accounts. Investigators allege that these officials helped open and maintain accounts that were later used in cyber fraud operations.
According to officials, despite suspicious transaction alerts, certain accounts were kept active using additional documentation and procedural manipulation. In some instances, high-value transactions were allegedly converted into cash and routed through hawala channels, indicating a deeper financial laundering mechanism.
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How the racket operated
Police investigations suggest that the network functioned in a highly organized manner. Fraudsters used fake identities to open bank accounts, which were then used to carry out large-scale cyber scams. These included digital arrest frauds, fake loan offers, and investment scams targeting victims across India.
Several accounts were disguised using agricultural or business-related documents to avoid suspicion from banking systems. The network reportedly involved agents operating across multiple states, creating a widespread and layered fraud infrastructure.
85 accounts and 535 complaints linked
So far, investigators have identified 85 bank accounts directly linked to the cyber fraud operation. Additionally, 535 complaints have been registered on the national cybercrime reporting portal, indicating the widespread impact of the scam across the country.
Victims reported being targeted through fake calls, phishing links, and fraudulent investment schemes. In several cases, individuals were coerced into transferring money after being threatened with “digital arrest” scenarios, a growing tactic in cyber fraud operations.
20 arrests, probe expanding
The Rajkot Rural Police have arrested 20 accused so far, including bank staff, agents, and account operators. All accused are currently in custody or under judicial remand.
Officials confirmed that the investigation is still in its early stages and more arrests are likely as financial trails are being analyzed. Digital forensic teams and cyber experts are actively working to trace fund flows and identify additional members of the network.
Nationwide implications
Authorities have emphasized that this is not an isolated local crime but part of a large, organized cybercrime ecosystem operating across India. The case highlights vulnerabilities in banking systems and the misuse of financial infrastructure for illegal activities.
Investigators are now focusing on identifying additional bank employees or intermediaries who may have supported the network, either knowingly or unknowingly.
