In a sweeping crackdown on cybercrime, a Hyderabad-based cybercrime gang has been dismantled after a special operation by the Hyderabad City Cyber Crimes unit. The operation, which involved six teams across various states including Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan, led to the arrest of 18 accused, including three key masterminds.
This high-profile bust uncovered a series of sophisticated fraud cases, including investment fraud, digital fraud, sextortion, and insurance scams. A total of Rs 6.94 crores was extorted from unsuspecting victims, with the police detecting ten major cases. The police seized Rs.5 lakh in cash, 26 mobile phones, 16 ATM cards, 7 passbooks, 11 cheque books, 10 SIM cards, 2 laptops, 2 desktops and a hard disk. “An amount of Rs. 1.61 crore has been frozen in the bank accounts of the suspects,” Anand said. The nature of the frauds is outlined below:
- Investment Frauds: 6 cases
- Digital Fraud Arrests: 1 case
- Sextortion Fraud: 1 case
- OTP Fraud: 1 case
- Insurance Fraud: 1 case
Among the arrested are individuals from Mumbai, Rajasthan, Karnataka, and Telangana. The accused include account suppliers, holders, and impersonators posing as insurance company officials. Mumbai-based mastermind Nikesh Bhati and several others, such as Sanjay Biman Das, Yogesh Kumar, and Devraj Chandrawat, were key operators in this network.
In a staggering revelation, the total amount defrauded stands at Rs 6.94 crores, affecting victims across India. This includes 319 cases linked to these fraudsters nationwide, with 45 cases reported from Telangana alone.
Authorities warn citizens to stay vigilant and not to respond to unknown calls, as such tactics are often used by cybercriminals. The Hyderabad Commissioner emphasized the importance of being cautious and aware in this digital age, where threats range from fraudulent schemes to drugs and extortion.
The police have seized several accounts and assets linked to the accused, as the investigation continues.
