Cyber Sleuths Bust High-Tech Crime Ring: Trio Nabbed in Hyderabad Raid
(Judicial Quest News Network)
Hyderabad, June 19, 2024 – In a resolute stance against cybercrime, the Telangana State Cyber Security Bureau (TGCSB) has initiated a comprehensive investigation into a sophisticated network involved in the illicit trade of SIM cards and bank accounts. This organized operation spans across multiple Indian states and extends internationally to destinations such as Dubai, Thailand, and Cambodia. The Cyber Crime Police Station (Headquarters) of TGCSB has successfully apprehended three individuals linked to this intricate supply chain.
Arrested Individuals:
- Shaik Subhani, 26, Jagadgirigutta, Hyderabad
- K. Naveen, 22, Chinthal, Jeedimetla, Hyderabad
- M. Prem Kumar alias Michael alias Mike Tisson, 24, RTC X Road, Hyderabad
Items Seized:
- 113 SIM Cards
- 3 Mobile Phones
Modus Operandi: The accused obtained SIM cards using the identities of various individuals and entities. These SIM cards were then supplied to cybercriminals and exported primarily through Dubai. The procurement process involved collaborators from different states responsible for collecting, transporting, and exporting the SIM cards. Key figures based in Dubai coordinated the receipt of SIM cards and bank accounts sourced from associates across India. The main orchestrator, Vijay, residing in Dubai, collaborated with SIM card suppliers from Uttar Pradesh. The SIM cards were couriered to Michael, who distributed them to Naveen and Subhani via Rapido. Naveen and Subhani handed over the SIM cards to Vijay during his visits to India. Vijay, employed in a Chinese-operated call center in Dubai, sold the SIM cards at inflated prices to Chinese nationals involved in cybercrime. The SIM cards, purchased for approximately Rs. 500, were retailed for Rs. 1,500 to Rs. 3,000, depending on their position in the distribution chain.
The accused operated multiple Telegram groups like “Indian SIM Cards Sale” and “Indian Bank Accounts Sale” to attract potential buyers. Interested parties were contacted privately on Telegram to negotiate transactions. Once deals were finalized, physical SIM cards were exchanged for cash upon delivery to buyers.
Individuals in Dubai frequently traveled to India to collect SIM cards for resale to Chinese nationals involved in cybercrime. Some SIM cards were further distributed to Thailand and Cambodia. The TGCSB is actively pursuing the main accused residing in Dubai.
Public Appeal: The TGCSB urges the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to the procurement and sale of SIM cards and bank accounts. Citizens are advised to exercise caution, as their identities could be misused for unlawful purposes. Those knowingly involved in the sale of their own bank accounts or SIM cards are warned of severe legal consequences.
This successful operation was led by Deputy Superintendent of Police K.V.M. Prasad and his dedicated team, which included Inspector Shri Mahendar, Sub-Inspector Shiva, Head Constable Suresh, and Police Constables Kranthi, Bhanu, Praveen, Adarsh, and Arshad, under the expert guidance of Superintendent of Police Shri Devender Singh Chauhan.
