Bihar: International cyber fraud network busted in East Champaran, four held

Patna, April 15 (IANS) In a major breakthrough, police have busted an international cyber fraud racket operating under the Kalyanpur police station area in Bihar’s East Champaran district, exposing links that extend beyond national borders.

Four accused have been arrested in connection with the case.

According to an official, the arrested individuals were part of a well-organised cybercrime network and received a 10 per cent commission on the total amount defrauded from victims.

The operation began after police received a tip-off about a suspected cybercriminal, Ankit Kumar, a resident of Khatolwa village, who was spotted near an ATM.

Acting swiftly, a police team apprehended him on the spot. During interrogation, Ankit revealed details of a larger network, leading to the arrest of his three accomplices.

Providing details, Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) Santosh Kumar said that the accused were working in coordination with cybercriminals, including operatives based in Pakistan.

The gang allegedly used misleading social media advertisements and threats of fake legal action to trap victims.

In several cases, victims were subjected to what is commonly referred to as a “digital arrest” tactic—where fear is used as a tool to extort money.

The defrauded money was subsequently transferred to their foreign handlers through Cash Deposit Machines (CDMs), in return for which the accused retained a commission.

Investigations have also revealed that the group had connections with cybercriminal networks operating in other states and countries.

The arrested accused have been identified as Ankit Kumar (Khatolwa village), Yuvraj Kumar (Kesariya village), Mohammad (Garahiya village), and Chunnu Kumar (Gajhauliya village)

Police have recovered several incriminating items from their possession, including seven bank passbooks, 10 ATM cards, one laptop, and five mobile phones.

Additionally, two high-end motorcycles—allegedly purchased using the proceeds of cyber fraud—and one Pulsar motorcycle used in executing the crimes have been seized.

All four accused are currently being interrogated, and further investigations are underway to uncover the full extent of the network.

–IANS

ajk/uk

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