Gurugram | The Gurugram Police have dismantled an interstate cyber fraud network involved in cheating people through fake investment schemes and online gaming platforms, arresting nine accused in a coordinated operation. Investigators said the racket was operating across parts of Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, with strong digital links to cybercriminals based in Dubai.
According to the police, the gang targeted victims by circulating fraudulent investment offers and online gaming links through instant messaging applications and social media platforms. Victims were lured with promises of high and quick returns, and once they clicked on the links, money was siphoned off from their bank accounts.
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Arrests made from Kota in Rajasthan
Following technical surveillance and analysis of digital trails, a cyber police team traced the gang’s base of operations to a rented flat in Rajasthan’s Kota district. A raid was conducted at the location, leading to the arrest of all nine accused.
Police officials said the flat was being used as an operational hub for coordinating cyber fraud activities, managing bank accounts, and communicating with overseas handlers.
During the search, the police seized 13 mobile phones, three laptops and 37 ATM cards. These devices were allegedly used to operate fake accounts, contact victims and move fraud proceeds across multiple banking channels.
Use of mule accounts and forged documents
The investigation revealed that the gang relied heavily on mule bank accounts to move the defrauded money and avoid detection. Economically vulnerable individuals were allegedly lured with small sums of money to open bank accounts in their names, which were then handed over to the gang.
In several cases, forged documents, including fake rent agreements, were used to open fraudulent accounts. Police said these accounts were later “sold” within the network and used to rotate funds rapidly, making it difficult for banks and investigators to trace the money trail.
At least ₹2.4 lakh of the cheated amount was traced to one such account during the initial probe. Investigators believe the total fraud amount could be significantly higher and are currently assessing the scale of financial damage caused by the network.
Direct links to Dubai-based handlers
Police said the probe has established that some members of the gang were in direct contact with cybercriminals operating from Dubai. These overseas handlers allegedly supplied links to fake investment groups and online gambling platforms.
The India-based operatives were responsible for circulating these links through messaging apps and persuading victims to invest or participate in online games. Once the victims transferred money, it was routed through local mule accounts before being sent abroad.
Investigators said around 70% of the cheated amount was transferred to handlers based in Dubai, while the remaining 30% was distributed among the local operators as commission.
Gang members worked on fixed salaries
Interrogation of the accused revealed that not all members were masterminds. Several individuals were working on fixed monthly salaries and were assigned limited roles such as managing bank accounts, arranging SIM cards, and handling victim communication.
The core operators coordinated the overall fraud operation and ensured that instructions received from abroad were executed on the ground. This layered structure, police said, helped the gang function smoothly while insulating the main handlers from direct exposure.
Accused sent to judicial custody
All nine arrested accused were produced before a local court and have been remanded to judicial custody. Police said further investigation is underway to identify additional members, beneficiaries and overseas links connected to the racket.
Authorities are also examining seized digital devices to uncover more victim accounts, financial transactions and communication records that could lead to fresh arrests.
Rising concern over organised cybercrime
Police officials said the case highlights the growing sophistication of cyber fraud networks, particularly those exploiting online investment and gaming platforms. Such crimes are increasingly being run through international syndicates, making detection and enforcement more complex.
Citizens have been advised to remain cautious of unsolicited investment offers, online gaming links and social media groups promising guaranteed returns. Police reiterated that any suspicious cyber activity should be reported immediately through the national cybercrime helpline 1930 or on the cybercrime.gov.in portal.
About the author — Suvedita Nath is a science student with a growing interest in cybercrime and digital safety. She writes on online activity, cyber threats, and technology-driven risks. Her work focuses on clarity, accuracy, and public awareness.
