Kerala Police launched a large-scale crackdown against cyber financial fraud, arresting 165 individuals and registering 455 cases in a statewide special operation named ‘Operation Cy-Hunt 2.0’. The coordinated drive was conducted across all police station jurisdictions on March 5 as part of a strategic effort to weaken cybercrime financial networks.
1,168 Raids and 306 Devices Seized in Operation Cy-Hunt 2.0
According to a statement issued by the police headquarters, 1,168 locations were raided during the operation, and 306 electronic devices were seized. The primary targets of the action were individuals allegedly involved in facilitating the withdrawal of fraudulently obtained money through cheque cashing, ATM transactions, and mule bank account channels. Investigators believe that large cyber fraud syndicates depend on such intermediary financial networks to sustain their operations.
Police officials stated that the objective of the operation was not only case-based response but also the systematic disruption of the cybercrime ecosystem. Investigations revealed that after fraud transactions, funds were rapidly transferred across multiple accounts to obscure the original source of the money trail. Mule bank accounts and withdrawal facilitators were identified as key components in this laundering process.
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Expert Insights on Cyber Law Enforcement and Mule Account Strategies
Commenting on the operation, renowned cybercrime expert and former IPS officer Prof. Triveni Singh stated, “Cyber fraud syndicates often rely on social engineering and technical manipulation. Disrupting mule account networks is considered one of the most effective strategies in modern cyber law enforcement. Direct action on financial conduits significantly weakens the operational capacity of criminal organizations.”
Ongoing Probes and Public Awareness
Authorities clarified that detailed investigations are continuing against individuals identified during the drive. If inter-state criminal links are discovered during the probe, further legal procedures will be initiated in accordance with law enforcement protocols. Digital evidence and intelligence inputs are being systematically analysed to support ongoing and future investigations.
Alongside enforcement actions, police also issued public awareness advisories on cyber safety. Citizens were urged not to share sensitive banking information such as OTP, passwords, PIN, or CVV with unknown persons. They were also advised to avoid clicking suspicious links and to remain cautious of task-based online job offers or investment schemes promoted through unfamiliar sources.
Cybercrime Prevention Tips from Kerala Police
To enhance digital security, authorities recommended the use of strong and unique passwords for different accounts and activation of two-factor authentication (2FA). The police also advised that in case of any suspected cyber incident, citizens may contact the national cybercrime helpline number 1930 or lodge complaints through the official portal cybercrime.gov.in.
Officials stated that ‘Operation Cy-Hunt 2.0’ has strengthened the detection, prevention, and rapid response capabilities of law enforcement agencies against cyber financial crimes. The initiative reflects a shift toward dismantling organized cybercrime networks through phased and intelligence-driven enforcement strategies.
Police headquarters indicated that such specialized operations against cybercrime will continue in the future to further strengthen digital financial security and systematically disrupt criminal networks operating in the cyber domain.
About the author – Ayesha Aayat is a law student and contributor covering cybercrime, online frauds, and digital safety concerns. Her writing aims to raise awareness about evolving cyber threats and legal responses.
