CBI Arrests 26 Key Operatives in Coordinated Raids Across 32 Locations to Disrupt Major Tech-Enabled Crime Network
(Judicial Quest News Network)
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has successfully executed a major multi-city operation aimed at dismantling a highly organized cyber-crime network engaged in fraudulent activities targeting victims around the globe. This operation has led to significant disruption of a transnational technology-enabled crime syndicate.
Based on intelligence about the cyber-crime organization, the International Operations Division of the CBI registered Case No. RC2312024S0010 on September 24, 2024, under sections 61 and 318 of the BNSS, 2023, and section 66-D read with section 75 of the Information Technology Act of 2000. This action is part of the ongoing Operation Chakra-III. Following the initiation of the investigation, the CBI swiftly coordinated searches at 32 locations across Pune, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, and Visakhapatnam, commencing in the late evening of September 26, 2024.
During these operations, CBI officials apprehended 170 individuals who were actively engaged in online criminal activities at four call centers:
- M/s V.C. Informetric Pvt. Ltd, Regent Plaza, Pune
- M/s V.C. Informetrix Pvt. Ltd, Murli Nagar, Vishakhapatnam
- M/s Viajex Solutions, Hyderabad
- M/s Atriya Global Services Pvt. Ltd, Vishakhapatnam
So far, the CBI has arrested 26 key operatives—10 from Pune, 5 from Hyderabad, and 11 from Visakhapatnam. Investigations are ongoing to assess the roles of other employees at these illegal call centers. The operation has resulted in the seizure of critical digital evidence and incriminating materials, with a total of 951 items confiscated. These include electronic devices, mobile phones, laptops, financial documents, and communication records essential to the cyber-crime network’s operations. Additionally, CBI recovered ₹58.45 lakh in cash, several locker keys, and three luxury vehicles.
The cyber criminals targeted in this extensive operation were involved in various illicit activities, primarily impersonating tech support services. They contacted victims, especially in the USA, claiming that their systems had been compromised. Victims were led to believe their identities were stolen and that numerous unauthorized transactions were being made on their bank accounts. The criminals further convinced victims that they were under surveillance by law enforcement due to suspicious orders allegedly placed by them. In a deceptive scheme, the victims were coerced into transferring their funds to new accounts provided by the criminals, purportedly to safeguard their finances. In some cases, intimidation tactics were employed, forcing victims to transfer funds via international gift cards or cryptocurrency. The financial losses incurred by these victims have been extensive.
Investigations into the broader network and potential international connections are ongoing, with close coordination between the CBI and the Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in the USA, as well as other foreign law enforcement agencies. As part of the larger Operation Chakra-III, the CBI’s International Operations Division is rapidly identifying and addressing organized technology-enabled crime networks in collaboration with INTERPOL and other international partners. This operation highlights the CBI’s commitment to combating and dismantling sophisticated criminal networks that exploit technology for fraudulent purposes.
