Kanpur | A massive and highly organized cyber fraud and GST evasion network has been exposed in Uttar Pradesh’s Kanpur, revealing one of the largest economic crimes in recent years. Preliminary investigations suggest that the alleged mastermind, Rajbir Singh Yadav, has executed fraud and tax evasion exceeding ₹1000 crore, far higher than the initially estimated ₹125 crore. The accused is currently absconding, and multiple teams are conducting coordinated raids at various locations to trace him.
According to investigative agencies, the entire syndicate operated in a structured and technologically advanced manner, systematically misusing digital infrastructure. The group relied heavily on virtual international mobile numbers with country codes such as +44 and +66. These numbers were reportedly procured at a low cost of around ₹200 to ₹250 and activated using a single OTP. Once activated, they were used to operate the entire network through WhatsApp and other encrypted digital communication platforms.
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The probe has also revealed a large-scale GST fraud mechanism built around fake companies and fabricated billing systems. Shell firms posing as textile trading entities were used to generate fake e-way bills for agricultural commodities such as potatoes and rice. This manipulation helped conceal actual trade activity and enabled massive tax evasion, causing significant losses to government revenue over an extended period.
A key financial handler in the network has been identified as Ankit Goyal, who allegedly managed the banking operations of multiple shell entities. He is said to have controlled financial transactions, monitored fund movement, and facilitated layering of illicit money across various accounts. Investigators have already traced transactions worth approximately ₹53.47 crore in a single fake corporate account linked to the syndicate.
Authorities believe the network was deeply involved in digital fraud, fake invoicing, and sophisticated money laundering operations. Funds were repeatedly circulated through multiple bank accounts to obscure their origin and avoid detection. The use of shell companies, forged documents, and digital payment channels made it extremely difficult for investigators to track the money trail in real time.
Experts note that such syndicates pose a serious threat not only to financial systems but also to the integrity of tax administration frameworks. Cybercrime specialist Prof. Triveni Singh stated that organized groups like these exploit fake identities and virtual digital infrastructure to execute large-scale financial crimes, and effective inter-state coordination is essential to dismantle such networks.
The scam has raised serious concerns over the effectiveness of GST monitoring systems and digital compliance mechanisms. Investigators have also found that several small and medium traders may have been unknowingly trapped into this fraudulent ecosystem, resulting in financial losses and compliance complications for legitimate businesses.
Multiple agencies are now expanding the investigation to identify possible links across other states. Digital forensic teams are analyzing banking records, server logs, and transaction histories to map the complete financial structure of the network and identify all involved beneficiaries.
Officials have confirmed that the investigation is still in its early stages and further revelations are likely in the coming days. The scale of the operation suggests the possibility of additional suspects and wider interstate connections yet to be uncovered. Efforts are currently focused on dismantling the entire syndicate and recovering illegally siphoned funds.
Authorities have urged citizens and businesses to remain vigilant against suspicious investment schemes, fake billing systems, and unauthorized trade offers. They have also advised immediate reporting of any doubtful financial activity to enforcement agencies. The investigation continues as teams work to fully expose and neutralize the network.
