Kozhikode | In a major move against cyber financial crimes, Kozhikode City police in Kerala have identified 114 suspicious bank accounts allegedly used to route money obtained through online fraud and conceal illegal funds through cryptocurrency transactions. Under the ongoing ‘Operation Cyhunt’, authorities have registered 25 separate cybercrime cases.
During the investigation, special squads conducted search operations at 91 different locations across the city. Police sources said the identified accounts were shortlisted based on information received from the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal and technical data analysis. Two suspects were arrested during the action, while 21 other account holders were issued notices for further questioning.
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Police teams also recovered seven mobile phones allegedly used for illegal financial transactions and online fraud activities. Investigators believe these devices were used by cybercriminal networks to conceal communication records and transaction data. The seized devices are now being subjected to forensic examination.
Preliminary findings suggest that several of the suspicious accounts fall under the category of “mule accounts”, which are typically used to rapidly transfer defrauded money and route it into cryptocurrency trading channels. Officials said some businesspersons and students were also found to have allegedly provided their bank accounts to cybercriminals in exchange for commission-based “passive income”.
The investigation team has warned that allowing personal bank accounts to be used for fraudulent purposes is a serious criminal offence. People have been advised to immediately inform banks and police authorities if unknown persons transfer money into their accounts or if suspicious transactions are detected. Sharing confidential banking information such as login credentials or OTPs through social media or messaging platforms has also been discouraged.
Cybersecurity experts say financial criminals have now adopted technologically advanced fraud strategies. Renowned cybercrime expert and former IPS officer Prof. Triveni Singh said,
“Cybercriminals use social engineering techniques to trap victims. By exploiting greed and urgency in digital financial systems, they build mule account networks. Hence, vigilance remains the most effective safeguard.”
According to police officials, the primary objective of Operation Cyhunt is to dismantle the financial supply chain of cybercriminal groups. The investigation team is also working to trace source accounts from where the fraud money was initially transferred. Transactions made through cryptocurrency exchange platforms are also under detailed scrutiny.
Cyber police have appealed to the public not to allow their bank accounts to be used at the request of unknown individuals. If anyone offers commission or “passive income” in exchange for using a bank account, people have been urged to remain alert. Authorities warned that account holders may also face legal action if found involved in such activities.
The ongoing operation is being considered an important step toward strengthening cyber financial security. Police officials said the network of suspicious accounts will be further analysed in the coming days to reach larger fraud syndicates.
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.
