A major cybercrime network has been busted in Meerut amid intensified surveillance against digital fraud, leading to the arrest of three accused. Police have recovered multiple mobile phones, ATM cards, and a bank chequebook from their possession.
Preliminary investigation has revealed that the gang lured individuals with promises of easy money and used their bank accounts to receive proceeds from cyber fraud cases.
According to investigators, the illicit funds were later converted into cryptocurrency and transferred abroad, allegedly to obscure the money trail and evade detection. Authorities have found that nearly 100 bank accounts were used in this racket, with complaints linked to multiple states across the country.
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Three Accused Arrested
The arrested accused have been identified as Arbaz alias Sonu, Naved Akhtar, and Haider. All three have reportedly been involved in similar criminal activities earlier as well and were operating as key facilitators in the network. Their primary role was to arrange bank accounts and assist in transferring fraud proceeds further along the chain.
Cybercrime experts and former IPS officer Prof. Triveni Singh noted that such gangs exploit digital greed and social engineering tactics to trap unsuspecting individuals. He further stated that the growing use of cryptocurrency for cross-border fund transfers has become a serious challenge for enforcement agencies, as it significantly complicates the tracing of illicit money flows.
Bank Accounts Used as Conduits
One of the most alarming aspects of the case is the systematic targeting of vulnerable individuals by offering them small commissions or job opportunities in exchange for opening bank accounts in their names. These accounts were then allegedly used for cyber fraud transactions, often leaving the account holders unknowingly exposed to legal scrutiny and severe financial distress.
Investigations also suggest that the network may have been spread across multiple states and potentially linked to various online platforms and messaging applications. The use of cryptocurrency has made it increasingly difficult for agencies to trace the ultimate destination of the funds, prompting concerns over the sophistication of such operations.
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Experts believe that lack of digital awareness continues to be a major factor behind the rising incidence of such crimes, as many individuals share sensitive banking information in pursuit of quick financial gains. Authorities are currently conducting detailed financial tracking to map the movement of funds and identify the final beneficiaries of the scam.
There are also indications that the network could have international links, possibly connected to cyber operators based outside India who coordinate such fraud activities remotely. Locally, citizens have been advised to remain cautious, particularly against offers involving bank account openings or commission-based schemes.
The case highlights the evolving nature of cybercrime, where traditional fraud methods are increasingly being replaced by advanced digital tools and cryptocurrency-based laundering systems.
Further revelations are expected as investigative agencies continue to examine bank records, digital wallets, and cryptocurrency exchange data in detail. The crackdown is being seen as a significant step in combating organized cyber fraud networks and may help strengthen future enforcement efforts against such technologically driven crimes.
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.
