Kanpur | A major cybercrime and tax fraud network has been uncovered in the city where bogus firms were allegedly used to illegally claim input tax credit (ITC) benefits worth crores of rupees. According to the Cyber Crime Branch investigation, the gang collected Aadhaar, bank, land and other important documents from more than 100 people in Kanpur and Unnao. Using these documents, the group allegedly registered fake firms and opened new SIM cards and bank accounts for fraudulent transactions. Police have arrested two accused and sent them to jail, while a search is underway for other members of the gang.
The investigation has traced a network of 38 fake firms so far. Bank accounts linked to nine of these firms showed transactions worth nearly ₹250 crore. Police officials said details of the remaining 29 firms are being obtained from banks, and four private banks have been formally asked to share transaction records. Preliminary investigation has also raised suspicion about the involvement of some individuals associated with marketing work in the Unnao region.
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The gang reportedly operated in a highly organised manner. The accused allegedly collected documents by promising jobs or loan facilitation. These documents were then used to register firms, prepare tenancy certificates, and open bank accounts. The money deposited into these accounts was immediately withdrawn in cash to avoid creating a digital transaction trail. Investigators also found that some firm offices were set up inside rented shops and rooms.
Among the victims was Ratna Saxena of RK Nagar, Najirabad, who alleged that her documents were taken by Kapil Mishra and Amardeep from Unnao in January 2026 on the pretext of arranging a loan. Later, she discovered that a bank account had been opened in her name at a private bank branch in Govind Nagar and linked to a firm named Rudra Enterprises. Several suspicious transactions were recorded in that account.
Another firm, Parvati Enterprises, also surfaced during the investigation. Around ₹117 crore was reportedly transacted through its account. Police suspect that this firm could be one of the main entities in the network. During questioning, account holder Ujjwal from Unnao stated that he was unaware of any firm operation and had submitted his documents earlier for a loan application.
The Cyber Crime Branch has arrested Kapil Mishra and Raj alias Amardeep from Unnao. During interrogation, the names of several other suspects including Rishabh Shukla, Pratham, Kanpur residents Rishabh Pandey, Rishabh Patel, Rajat and Sahil emerged. Officials said Rishabh Pandey is reportedly a relative of Kapil Mishra and worked in marketing at a bike agency in Unnao. Many members of the gang were also associated with marketing-related activities and were frequently seen near bank branches.
Police have also recovered around 30 mobile phones from the accused. Investigators suspect that the gang had planned to create nearly 50 fake firms, some of which were still under process. About ₹1.5 crore deposited in accounts of Rudra Enterprises, Parvati Enterprises and other firms has been frozen.
Cybercrime experts emphasise that protecting personal documents and maintaining financial awareness are essential to prevent such crimes. Police stated that strict legal action will be taken against all accused after the completion of the investigation.
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.
