iBomma Ravi used friends’ identities to run movie piracy network, Rs 13 crore transactions traced
During 12 days of custodial interrogation, investigators unearthed key evidence pointing to large-scale identity misuse and money laundering.
By - Newsmeter Network |
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Hyderabad: The investigation into the iBomma piracy case has taken a dramatic turn, with Cyber Crime Police uncovering a web of fake identities, forged documents and massive financial transactions linked to iBomma Ravi.
What did the probe find so far in the movie piracy case?
During 12 days of custodial interrogation, investigators unearthed key evidence pointing to large-scale identity misuse and money laundering.
Some of the major revelations include finding transactions involving Rs 13 crore linked to the operation and how Ravi used his friends’ identities to cover it all up.
Multiple fake identities using friends’ documents
Police found that Ravi created several fake identities using the personal documents of three of his close associates, Vellela Prahlad Kumar, Anjaiah from Karimnagar and Kali Prasad, his Class 10 batchmate.
Using their Aadhaar cards, Ravi allegedly generated forged identities while uploading his own photograph against their names.
Ravi used his friend's Class 10 certificate to secure a driving license, PAN card
According to investigators, Ravi became acquainted with Prahlad while staying in a hostel at Ameerpet in 2007. During this period, Ravi reportedly obtained Prahlad’s Class 10 memo and Aadhaar card.
Using Prahlad’s identity, Ravi secured a driving licence, a PAN card and even opened bank accounts. However, the passport was obtained in Ravi’s own name.
Benami websites and failed ventures
The Cyber Crime team revealed that Ravi purchased multiple websites in the names of his friends, operating them as benami ventures. These included websites related to hospital and supplier services.
After these ventures failed to gain traction, Ravi allegedly went on to create the iBomma platform, which later grew into a major piracy network.
Rs 13 crore transactions, funds spent abroad
Investigators have traced financial transactions worth approximately Rs 13 crore linked to the operation. Of this amount, Rs 3 crore has already been frozen by the police.
The remaining Rs 10 crore, officials said, was spent by Ravi on luxury trips and personal expenses abroad.
Custody ends, sent to jail
With the completion of the 12-day police custody, Cyber Crime officials are set to produce Ravi before the Nampally Court on Monday. He will subsequently be shifted to Chanchalguda Central Jail, police confirmed.