Central District Cyber Police Dismantles International Cyber Scam Operation and Arrests Five Individuals

The Cyber Police Station of the Central District has successfully dismantled an international cyber scam operation that preyed on unsuspecting victims by promising high investment returns. This operation has led to the arrest of five individuals and the freezing of over Rs. 1.25 crores in their bank accounts.

The Victim’s Deception The investigation began when Ashish Agrrawal filed a complaint on the National Cyber-Crime Portal in June 2023. Agrrawal reported falling victim to a WhatsApp message enticing him to invest in a Telegram app scheme that promised substantial returns. Initially, he invested a small sum of Rs. 1000, expecting Rs. 1100 in return. As he saw returns, he continued to invest more. However, the scammers reneged on their promises and convinced him to invest even more, resulting in Agrrawal losing approximately Rs. 30 lakhs.

Cracking the Case After an initial inquiry, a First Information Report (FIR) was registered under sections 420/120B of the IPC at the Cyber Police Station, Central District. The investigative team obtained bank account details and Call Detail Records (CDRs) linked to the accused individuals. They discovered that the fraudulently obtained funds had been transferred to 25 bank accounts across various banks and cities. Notably, one current bank account was opened under the fictitious company “AIRSKY” at an address in Nangalraya, Delhi, which was later found to be rented by Suhel Akram.

Further investigation revealed that 11 fake companies had been registered at this address, with different individuals listed as directors.

Unraveling the Operation On September 18, 2023, based on specific information, the police apprehended Suhel Akram and his associate Gaurav Sharma in Malviya Nagar, Delhi. A search of their belongings uncovered fake stamps, bank account details, and debit cards. Both individuals confessed to their crimes and were arrested following due legal procedures.

Modus Operandi During interrogation, the accused disclosed that they would rent premises to register shell companies using forged documents. They would then open current bank accounts in various banks, primarily targeting Yes Bank and RBL Bank, under the names of these shell companies. Balram, a friend of Suhel Akram, would arrange individuals to act as nominees or directors for these shell companies.

Suhel Akram further revealed that he provided details of these fake current bank accounts to Vivek Kumar Singh, a resident of Gurugram, Haryana, who was in contact with counterparts in Dubai and the Philippines. The international connections of this cybercrime operation became apparent, as foreign nationals were involved in online betting, gaming, and investment schemes.

The Arrested Individuals

• Vivek Kumar Singh (33 years)
• Manish Kumar (23 years)
• Suhel Akaram @ Syed Ahamad (32 years)
• Gaurav Sharma (23 years)
• Balram (32 years)

Significant Recoveries The police seized substantial evidence and property linked to the accused individuals, including 25 mobile phones, 31 SIM cards, numerous PAN cards, debit cards, Aadhar cards, passbooks, and chequebooks. Additionally, a Honda City car and various household items were purchased with the ill-gotten money.

Total Transactions and Further Investigation The total transactions in the bank accounts of the accused exceeded Rs. 125 crores, with over Rs. 1.25 crores frozen. The investigation is ongoing, with efforts to apprehend other individuals involved in this cyber cheating network.

This successful operation by the Central District Cyber Police underscores the importance of vigilance and awareness in an era where cybercrimes continue to evolve. It serves as a warning to potential victims to exercise caution and verify the legitimacy of online investment schemes.