In a significant crackdown on cybercrime, the Telangana Cyber Security Bureau (TGCSB) announced the arrest of 27 individuals linked to an interstate cyber fraud operation originating from Rajasthan. The arrests were made as part of a coordinated effort to combat an extensive network of cybercriminals involved in 189 cybercrimes within Telangana and over 2,000 cases nationwide.
TGCSB Director Sikha Goel provided details of the operation during a press conference, stating that the suspects had opened and managed 29 mule accounts, which collectively handled suspicious transactions estimated at ₹11.01 crore. “In Telangana alone, they have defrauded victims of ₹9 crore,” Goel revealed.
The operation was initiated following specific intelligence reports, leading to the deployment of four special teams from the TGCSB to Rajasthan. Over the past 15 days, these teams conducted operations across various locations, including Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Nagaur, where they identified and apprehended the fraudsters.
“This is the first operation conducted by our newly formed special operations wing, which aims to implement a strategic approach for large-scale interstate operations to combat cyber crimes,” Goel explained. The TGCSB has established this wing to enhance coordination and effectiveness in tackling cybercrime.
The teams received real-time technical support from headquarters, enabling them to track the accused, who were involved in various fraudulent activities, including business and investment scams, trading frauds, and bank frauds. Investigators collected data on over 100 individuals who aided the cyber fraudsters in Rajasthan.
During the raids, authorities seized a significant cache of evidence, including 31 mobile phones, 37 SIM cards, 13 ATM cards, seven cheque books, two hard drives, and several other documents linked to the criminal activities.
Among those arrested are individuals from diverse backgrounds, including businessmen, contractors, students, and employees from the private sector. The accused were brought to Hyderabad on transit warrants and have since been remanded in judicial custody.
Goel stated that the TGCSB has identified an additional 33 cyber criminals during the operation and is actively working to apprehend them. The investigation has also extended to potential complicity among bank officials involved in the establishment and operation of the mule accounts, with legal action planned against any implicated individuals.
As the TGCSB continues its efforts to combat cybercrime, the agency emphasizes the importance of public vigilance and encourages individuals to report any suspicious online activities to prevent further incidents.
Sources By Agencies
