Bhubaneswar: In a major push to curb rising cybercrime, Odisha Police has launched a statewide special operation titled “Operation Cyber Kavach” targeting key enablers of online fraud — mule bank accounts, fake SIM cards and organised cybercrime networks.
Acting on directions from DGP Y.B. Khurania, special task forces have been constituted in every district under Superintendents of Police and in the Bhubaneswar-Cuttack Commissionerate under Deputy Commissioners of Police. The campaign will run until February 27.
Early breakthrough: ₹5 crore fraud racket unearthed
As part of the operation, Balangir police have busted a large digital fraud racket in which cybercriminals opened bank accounts in the names of multiple individuals and siphoned off more than ₹5 crore.
Two accused have been arrested so far. Seizures include:
- 29 bank passbooks
- 15 cheque books
- Swipe machines
- Mobile phones
- Other incriminating documents
Certified Cyber Crime Investigator Course Launched by Centre for Police Technology
Focus on mule account networks
In Mayurbhanj district, another case involving mule bank accounts used for cyber fraud has surfaced. Four accused have been identified and served notices, while investigations continue to trace additional links in the network.
Officials said cybercrime has evolved into inter-state and international operations, prompting a targeted strategy that includes:
- Identifying bulk SIM sellers using fake identity documents
- Monitoring ATM and cheque withdrawal hotspots used for cashing out funds
- Coordinating with banks to scrutinise suspicious accounts
Public advisory
The DGP has urged citizens not to share bank details, ATM cards, OTPs or any confidential financial information with anyone. Police emphasised that mule accounts and fake SIMs are the primary enablers that help fraudsters move money and conceal the transaction trail.
Further arrests and large-scale account freezing are likely in the coming days as part of the operation. The objective, officials said, is to dismantle the entire cyber fraud ecosystem and strengthen digital financial security across the state.
