The Mumbai Police Cyber Cell has dismantled an alleged organised racket involved in opening bank accounts using forged documents and supplying them to cyber fraud networks operating across the country. Seven persons, including the alleged kingpin, have been arrested in connection with the case. According to investigators, the group allegedly used forged Aadhaar cards, PAN cards and fabricated company documents to open bank accounts at multiple bank branches. These accounts were allegedly used to receive proceeds of cyber fraud before the money was transferred through multiple channels.
The arrested accused have been identified as Salman Habib Pathan, Sajid Nisar Ahmed Kothawala, Chirag Ketan Toprani, Rakesh Ramashankar Mishra, Rakshit K. Rajendra Hegde, Syed Wajahat Waheeduddin and Aryan Ritesh Thakkar. Police said the preliminary investigation indicates that the group systematically arranged bank accounts and shared their details with cyber fraudsters, enabling them to receive funds generated through online scams and subsequently transfer the money to other accounts.
According to police, the racket came to light during an operation conducted on July 29, when the Cyber Cell detained Salman Habib Pathan, Sajid Nisar Ahmed Kothawala and Chirag Ketan Toprani from the Borivali area. Searches led to the seizure of approximately ₹10 lakh in cash and three mobile phones. Based on initial interrogation and digital evidence, investigators expanded the probe and carried out raids in Mira Road and Bhayandar, where four additional accused were arrested.
Investigators allege that the group had opened more than 27 bank accounts at different branches of the same bank in Dadar, Mahim, Borivali and Mira Road using forged identity and company documents. These accounts were allegedly used to collect proceeds of cyber fraud and subsequently route the funds to other beneficiaries. Police are now examining the extent of the financial transactions and identifying cyber fraud cases in which these accounts may have been used.
The investigation further revealed, on the basis of information available through the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal, that the identified accounts were linked to suspicious transactions involving crores of rupees. Following the findings, police coordinated with the concerned bank to freeze all identified accounts to prevent further movement of funds. Mobile phones, SIM cards, banking records, digital devices and alleged forged company documents seized during the operation have been sent for forensic examination.
Renowned cybercrime expert and former IPS officer Prof. Triveni Singh said mule accounts and fake bank accounts have become one of the most critical components of organised cybercrime. According to him, cybercriminals avoid using their own bank accounts and instead rely on accounts opened with forged documents or in the names of unsuspecting individuals, making it significantly more difficult for investigators to trace the origin of funds and identify the ultimate beneficiaries. He emphasised that stronger Know Your Customer (KYC) verification, continuous monitoring of suspicious accounts and enhanced coordination among financial institutions and law enforcement agencies are essential to disrupting such criminal networks.
Police are continuing to analyse the accused persons’ digital networks, banking transactions, mobile data and financial records to determine the full scope of the operation. Investigators are also examining possible links between the racket and cyber fraud syndicates operating in different parts of the country. Further arrests have not been ruled out as the investigation progresses, while authorities continue to trace the money trail and identify additional individuals who may have been associated with the alleged network.
