A large-scale cyber fraud case has come to light as Gujarat Police uncovered a ₹77 Cr scam linked to 375 cases across India, highlighting how organised networks are exploiting everyday banking and telecom systems.
The investigation, led by the CID Crime Cyber Centre of Excellence, resulted in the arrest of 16 accused from Gujarat and Goa. These include 9 from Goa, 5 from Vadodara, and 2 from Palanpur.
According to Superintendent of Police Vivek Bheda, the accused built a wide network of mule bank accounts to move and hide money generated from cybercrime and gaming-related fraud.
The group allegedly used forged or third-party identities to obtain bank account kits and SIM cards. These were then passed on to associates who used them to route fraudulent funds, making transactions difficult to trace. Police recovered details of over 260 bank accounts from the accused’s mobile devices. The probe also revealed 3 shell companies used to support these operations and create a layer of legitimacy.
How this scam could involve you
The operation did not rely on complex hacking. Instead, it used simple methods with serious consequences.
Mule bank accounts were opened in the names of unaware individuals or those lured into the system. Your account could be misused if you casually share documents, agree to open accounts for money, or if your banking and SIM details are compromised.
These accounts were used to receive fraud money and transfer it across multiple layers, making detection extremely difficult.
International links raise concerns
The network extended beyond India. The accused were connected to operators abroad, especially in Dubai, through platforms like WhatsApp and Telegram.
This means fraud could originate anywhere, funds could move across borders within minutes, and recovery becomes highly challenging.
Source of fraudulent funds
The money routed through these accounts came from:
- Online gaming frauds
- Investment scams
- Phishing and fake calls
Anyone who has clicked on suspicious links, shared OTPs, or trusted quick-money schemes could be a potential target.
What authorities recovered
During the crackdown, officials seized:
- 260+ bank account details
- 100+ debit cards and SIM cards
- 15 laptops and 85 mobile phones
- 19 chequebooks and 82 passbooks
- 126 SIM cards and 115 debit cards
- Routers, pen drives, and blank cheques
Analysis of these devices revealed login credentials, transaction histories, and records of fraud complaints. Investigators also found WhatsApp and Telegram group chats with individuals in Dubai and other countries, indicating a coordinated international network.
This case shows that cybercrime today operates like a structured business, with different roles handling accounts, scams, and money movement.
What you should do
- Never share your bank details, OTPs, or KYC documents casually
- Do not open accounts for others, even if offered money
- Avoid unknown investment or gaming apps
- Check your bank statements regularly
- Report suspicious activity immediately
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