Bidhannagar Cyber Crime Police have arrested 20 people in two separate operations targeting the alleged illegal procurement and misuse of SIM cards and bank accounts suspected of being used to facilitate cyber fraud.
20 People Arrested
Police carried out two separate drives against activities linked to cyber fraud. One operation focused on the alleged misuse of multiple SIM cards, while the second targeted people suspected of operating mule bank accounts and facilitating illicit transactions.
The two operations resulted in a total of 20 arrests.
How Were SIM Cards Allegedly Misused?
In the first case, police arrested three point-of-sale agents for allegedly using multiple SIM cards without following prescribed verification procedures.
Five SIM collection agents were subsequently arrested, taking the number of arrests in this case to eight.
Police suspect that the SIM cards were later used in cyber scams. The investigation is examining their alleged procurement and subsequent misuse.
What Are Police Investigating About Bank Accounts?
In a separate operation, police arrested 12 people allegedly involved in operating mule bank accounts and facilitating illicit transactions.
The action was carried out on the basis of data shared by the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre, or I4C.
The operation formed part of the wider crackdown on bank accounts suspected of being used to facilitate cyber fraud.
What Did Police Seize?
Police seized ATM cards, bank passbooks, laptops and cheque books during the operation involving the suspected mule bank accounts.
These items are now part of the investigation into the alleged illicit transactions and the wider network behind the activities.
What Are Mule Bank Accounts Used For?
In this case, police alleged that the 12 arrested people were operating mule bank accounts and facilitating illicit transactions.
Investigators are now working to trace the financial trail and identify other people who may be connected to the alleged operations.
Investigation Underway
Police said investigations are continuing to identify the wider networks behind the alleged activities.
The probe is also examining financial trails and attempting to identify other people who may have been involved in the suspected misuse of SIM cards and bank accounts.
The420 Safety Tip: Protect Your SIM and Bank Account
SIM cards and bank accounts can become part of cyber fraud networks when they are obtained or used improperly. People should keep control of their banking documents and SIM credentials and avoid allowing others to use accounts or mobile connections registered in their names.
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