Kochi | Ernakulam rural police arrested 16 people in a major crackdown against cyberfraud under Operation Cy-Hunt, a special drive launched to counter the rising incidents of online financial crimes.
The arrests are part of an ongoing investigation into cyber fraud networks operating through misuse of bank accounts, cheque withdrawals, and ATM transactions. Of the arrested suspects, 13 were produced before the court and remanded in judicial custody following legal proceedings.
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Police registered 36 FIRs during the operation and seized nine digital devices used in fraudulent activities. Authorities stated that the accused were involved in facilitating cybercrime by providing bank accounts to others and withdrawing money that was fraudulently transferred into those accounts using cheques and ATM cards.
Investigators found that large financial transactions were being routed through these accounts to hide the identity of the main perpetrators behind the fraud network. The operation focused on dismantling the intermediary network that helps cybercriminals move illicit money across accounts.
The crackdown is part of a broader strategy to strengthen surveillance over digital financial transactions and identify mule accounts used for fraud operations. Police officials said cybercriminals are increasingly relying on social engineering tactics and financial intermediaries to execute scams.
According to law enforcement sources, several of the arrested individuals allegedly allowed their bank accounts to be used by others in exchange for monetary benefits. Once the fraud money was deposited, the network members allegedly withdrew the funds through ATMs or cheque transactions before the trail could be traced.
Cybersecurity experts have warned that such networks are becoming more sophisticated, exploiting public trust and lack of financial awareness. Criminals often lure people with promises of quick commission payments to open or lend their bank accounts for illegal transactions.
Authorities urged citizens to avoid sharing bank account details, ATM cards, OTPs, or financial credentials with strangers. They emphasized that even seemingly harmless cooperation in providing account access can lead to serious legal consequences.
Police also stated that technical monitoring and public awareness campaigns will be intensified to counter cybercrime. The investigation is continuing to identify additional members connected to the fraud network and track the financial flow of suspicious transactions.
Officials highlighted that public participation is crucial in controlling online fraud. Citizens were advised to immediately report suspicious calls, investment offers, or requests for financial information to law enforcement agencies.
The cyberfraud crackdown reflects the growing challenge of digital crime in the region as criminals shift from traditional methods to technology-driven financial fraud. Police said further action will be taken based on ongoing investigations and digital evidence analysis.
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.
