Investigators have uncovered 2 additional illegal SIM box farm sites in Tamil Nadu, expanding a probe into an alleged interstate network linked to cybercrime operations. The sites were detected in Tiruchirappalli and Thanjavur districts by the Cyber Command Unit during an investigation registered at Whitefield Police Station.
The latest findings follow raids in Bengaluru last week, when investigators seized 10 eSIM-enabled SIM box devices from locations in Kadugodi and Pattandur Agrahara. Whitefield cybercrime police have arrested 4 people for their alleged involvement in the network operating from 2 apartments in Whitefield. Officers also seized 10 GSM gateway devices with a combined capacity of 320 SIM connections.
Preliminary findings suggest that the Bengaluru facilities were established and operated by the same accused network. The electronic equipment allegedly supported communications and other activities connected to cybercrime operations.
After the seizures, investigators analysed the devices, telecommunications records and other digital evidence to determine whether the network operated only in Bengaluru or extended to other locations. This analysis led them to possible sites in Tiruchirappalli and Thanjavur.
The findings were shared with the Department of Telecommunications (DoT). Coordinated action between the departments subsequently led to the detection of the 2 additional sites.
Investigation targets wider network
The investigation is now focused on tracing the network’s full operational chain across India. Authorities are examining how the SIM box equipment was obtained and deployed, which SIM cards and eSIM profiles were used, and what telecommunications infrastructure supported the operations.
Investigators are also working to establish connections between the Bengaluru and Tamil Nadu sites, identify overseas handlers and their local facilitators, and locate any other facilities or infrastructure linked to the network.
Pronab Mohanty, Director General of Police, Cyber Command, Bengaluru, said the investigation aims to uncover the wider network and trace its operational links.
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