In a major blow to transnational cybercrime syndicates, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has launched a large-scale operation — named Operation CyStrike — targeting organised technology-enabled financial crime networks operating from India and abroad. The crackdown, conducted jointly with multiple international law enforcement agencies, led to the arrest of a key operative, Pfokrehrii Peter, and the dismantling of multiple fraud networks defrauding victims across the United States, United Kingdom, Kuwait, Ireland, Singapore and India.
The action is part of a coordinated global initiative geared at disrupting cyber-enabled financial crimes that exploit online anonymity and sophisticated digital tactics to target individuals and businesses worldwide.
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Massive Searches Across 35 Locations in India
Operation CyStrike was executed on January 30, 2026, when CBI officers carried out coordinated searches at 35 locations across 10 Indian states — including Delhi, Bihar, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Punjab, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Telangana and West Bengal. The searches unearthed evidence linking suspects to cyber-enabled monetary fraud schemes operated from Indian cities targeting foreign victims online.
During the raids, investigators seized a range of digital devices, such as laptops, mobile phones and computer hard disks — all containing incriminating digital evidence related to the fraudulent networks. These materials are now being analysed to map out the full scale and method of the schemes used.
Key Arrest: Pfokrehrii Peter Apprehended
Among those taken into custody was Pfokrehrii Peter, described by authorities as a key operative in one of the main cyber fraud networks. He was arrested at one of the search locations after evidence directly linked him to online financial deception and cross-border fraud operations.
The identification and arrest of Peter mark a critical success in disrupting organisational leadership within these fraud networks. Investigators expect further arrests as digital trails from seized devices are traced to co-conspirators and handlers operating abroad.
Multiple Fraud Schemes Busted Under CyStrike
In addition to Peter’s arrest, the operation uncovered and dismantled several fraudulent schemes:
- A transnational cyber-enabled financial crime network run out of New Delhi that targeted victims in the United States.
- Another network operating under the domain https://eservicemoi-Kw.com, which posed as a legitimate service offering Kuwaiti e-visas and job opportunities in leading Kuwait companies in exchange for money. Investigators seized fake visa documents, bogus appointment letters and approximately ₹60 lakh in cash from one suspect during the searches.
- Multiple mule accounts and financial conduits used to move proceeds of crime from victims in the United Kingdom, Ireland and Singapore into accounts controlled by the accused.
These networks used elaborate online identities and deceptive digital platforms to lure victims with promises of visas, jobs, services, or investment returns — common tactics seen in organised online fraud operations.
International Cooperation: FBI, INTERPOL and Other Agencies
Operation CyStrike was not a unilateral effort. The CBI coordinated closely with key international partners, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI, USA) and law enforcement agencies from the United Kingdom, Kuwait, Ireland and Singapore. This collaborative approach reflects a growing global consensus that cybercrime — particularly transnational financial fraud and ransomware-linked thefts — cannot be tackled by any single country in isolation.
Officials said that assistance from foreign partners helped track digital footprints, trace funds, and identify networks whose operations span continents — underscoring how online scams have evolved into highly organised, globally distributed operations.
What CyStrike Means for Cyber Enforcement in India
Operation CyStrike signals a heightened level of enforcement focus by Indian authorities on cyber-enabled financial crimes, especially those that affect foreign nationals and involve cross-border money movement. By dismantling operational elements of fraud networks within India, the CBI aims to:
- Reduce the country’s role as a base for international cybercrime activity.
- Undermine mule account networks and digital infrastructures used to launder stolen funds.
- Strengthen cooperation frameworks between India and global law enforcement for future actions.
Experts say such initiatives also send a strong message to cybercriminals that no matter how sophisticated or dispersed their schemes are, coordinated investigative efforts can expose and disrupt them.
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.
