The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has dismantled a sophisticated cyber fraud syndicate operating from an illegal call centre in Pune and other locations in Mumbai. The network reportedly targeted U.S. citizens, impersonating agencies like the IRS and USCIS through spoofed VoIP calls, phishing, and extortion, coercing victims into paying between USD 500 and USD 3,000 via gift cards or Bitcoin transfers.
Three operators, Amit Dube, Tarun Shenai, and Gonsalves Savio, were arrested and remanded by the Special Judge for CBI Cases in Mumbai until July 30. Multi-location raids were conducted on July 24–25, including searches at the illegal call centre and residences affiliated with the accused.
Modus Operandi: Impersonation, Crypto Laundering, and Hawala Channels
CBI investigations revealed that suspects used deceptive caller IDs to pose as agents from U.S. agencies—including the IRS, USCIS, and the Indian High Commission—to mislead victims, primarily in the U.S., into believing they faced legal action unless they transferred money. Victims were instructed to pay via prepaid gift vouchers or Bitcoin, facilitated through mule accounts and hawala routes.
Investigators estimate the group laundered ₹3–4 crore per month, converting illicit proceeds via cryptocurrency and informal financial networks. The operation also reportedly involved bank insiders who helped open accounts using forged KYC documents in violation of regulatory guidelines.
Evidence Seized and Expanding Investigation
During coordinated raids at seven sites, the CBI seized 27 mobile phones, 17 laptops, and approximately ₹11.2 lakh in cash, and 150 grams of suspected narcotics. Cryptocurrency valued at ₹6.94 lakh was also recovered from a wallet tied to one accused .
Analysis of the digital devices revealed the use of VoIP spoofing apps and secure messaging platforms like WhatsApp and Signal to manage operations and “lead generation.” CBI sources stated that these arrests mark only the initial phase; further probes aim to track banking collaborators and offshore operators involved in international laundering