Operation Chakra 3.0: CBI cracks down on transnational cybercrime network; Hyderabad, Vizag among 32 places raided

Hyderabad: Central Bureau of Investigation launched a massive crackdown against highly organized cybercrime network involved in fraudulent activities across the globe.

Operation Chakra-III was launched at 32 places in different cities including Hyderabad, Vishakhapatnam, Pune, and Ahmedabad. This operation has resulted in significant disruption and dismantling of a major transnational technology-enabled crime network.

Based on inputs, the International Operations Division of CBI registered Case No.RC2312024S0010 on September 24, 2024, under section 61 and 318 of BNSS, 2023 and 66-D read with 75 of the Information Technology Act of 2000.

After launching an investigation, CBI swiftly conducted coordinated searches at 32 different places across Pune, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, and Vishakhapatnam from September 26. During searches, CBI was able to intercept 170 persons engaged in ongoing online criminal activities across four call centers.

The call centers include V.C. Infrometrix Pvt. Ltd at Regent Plaza, Pune; V.C. Infrometrix Pvt. Ltd, Murli Nagar, Vishakhapatnam; Viajex Solutions, Hyderabad; and Atriya Global Services Pvt. Ltd, Vishakhapatnam.

CBI has so far arrested 26 key accused persons. They include 10 from Pune, five from Hyderabad, and 11 from Visakhapatnam. Investigation and questioning on the role of other workers at these illegal call centers is ongoing.

These operations have resulted in the seizure of critical digital evidence and incriminating material. Around 951 items have been seized which include electronic devices, mobile phones, laptops, financial information, communication records, and incriminating material used by this cybercrime network for criminal activity and to defraud victims. Additionally, Rs 58.45 lakh cash, locker keys, and three luxury vehicles have been recovered.

The cybercriminals were involved in a range of illicit activities, including impersonating tech support services and approaching victims, especially in the USA. They used to make victims believe that their systems have been hacked. Victims were made to believe that their identities had been stolen and a large number of unauthorized transactions were being made in their bank accounts. The victims were falsely made to believe that they were under surveillance by law enforcement agencies due to suspicious orders allegedly placed by them. The cybercriminals used to induce victims to transfer their bank holdings into new bank accounts given by cybercriminals in the guise of safeguarding their finances. In some instances, cybercriminals intimidated victims into transferring funds to them through international gift cards or cryptocurrency. Extensive wrongful losses were incurred by victims targeted by this criminal network. Investigations into the broader network and international leads are ongoing in close coordination with HSI (USA) and other foreign law enforcement agencies.

As part of the larger ongoing Operation Chakra-III, the International Operations Division of CBI has been rapidly identifying and taking action on organized technology-enabled crime networks in close concert with INTERPOL and foreign law enforcement agencies. The operation, coordinated with law enforcement agencies across multiple countries, underscores CBI’s commitment to combatting and dismantling organized technology-enabled crime networks.