Major Cybercrime Bust in Telangana: 21 Suspects Arrested
In a significant crackdown on cybercrime, the Telangana Cyber Security Bureau (TGCSB) has detained 21 individuals accused of masterminding a multitude of cybercrimes across the state. These suspects are linked to 25 local cases and an alarming 73 nationwide incidents, predominantly involving business scams, fraudulent part-time job offers, KYC scams, and matrimonial frauds.
The operation, which targeted areas in Hyderabad, Cyberabad, Rachakonda, Karimnagar, and Jagtial, yielded vital evidence, including the seizure of 20 mobile phones, 15 SIM cards, four bank passbooks, and five debit cards. Notable suspects include Ramesh Kumar from Katedan and Haroon Khan, a businessman from Kishan Bagh.
According to Shikha Goel, Director of TGCSB, these 21 suspects exploited their bank accounts to withdraw illicit funds totaling Rs 8.2 crore, which were funneled to higher-level agents. Additionally, some suspects utilized cryptocurrency to transfer these ill-gotten gains to international associates.
“This operation reveals a sophisticated network of cybercriminals operating within Telangana, which is linked to 714 suspects nationwide,” Goel stated. “We have identified connections to 325 cybercrime operatives across India and traced five cryptocurrency wallets that are crucial to our investigation.”
The blitz was orchestrated by Deputy Superintendents of Police S.V. Hari Krishna and K.V. Surya Prakash, under the guidance of SP Devender Singh. Their actions spotlight the urgent need to combat the growing cybercrime threat, which evolves continuously with technological advancement.
As the TGCSB intensifies its efforts against cybercriminal activities, authorities urge citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to help dismantle these networks.