Uttarakhand Police Launches Nationwide Crackdown on Cybercrime Syndicates Across 17 States

In a significant move against the escalating threat of cybercrime, the Uttarakhand Police's Special Task Force (STF) has executed a series of coordinated raids across 17 Indian states, leading to the arrest of multiple individuals involved in sophisticated digital fraud operations.

The STF's extensive investigation uncovered a complex network of cybercriminals employing deceptive tactics, including creating fake social media profiles to impersonate foreign nationals. These fraudsters lured unsuspecting victims with promises of lucrative gifts and then extorted money under the pretense of customs and clearance charges. The operation revealed connections to over 900 cases nationwide, with significant activity in states like Uttar Pradesh, Telangana, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, and Delhi. 

Senior Superintendent of Police, STF, Ayush Aggarwal, stated, "Our analysis of mobile numbers and bank accounts linked to these scams has led to the registration of 913 cases across the country. This underscores the extensive reach and coordination of these cybercrime networks."

In a related development, a gang based in Bikaner was found to be facilitating cybercrimes by providing mule bank accounts to scammers. These accounts were used to launder money obtained from victims, with the gang receiving a commission for each transaction. Investigations revealed that nearly ₹1 crore was funneled through 40 such accounts, with connections to fraud cases in Maharashtra and Uttarakhand.

The STF's operations also led to the arrest of individuals involved in an international cyber syndicate operating from China, Dubai, and Pakistan. This group defrauded a Dehradun resident of approximately ₹23 lakh by promising overseas employment opportunities. The syndicate's activities extended across various Indian states, employing sophisticated methods to deceive their victims. 

To bolster their cybercrime combat strategies, the Uttarakhand Police have sought insights and best practices from police departments in Maharashtra, Karnataka, Telangana, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh. This collaborative approach aims to enhance the state's cyber security framework and effectively tackle the growing threat of digital crimes. 

The public is urged to remain vigilant against online scams and report any suspicious activities to the national cybercrime helpline at 1930. The Uttarakhand Police's proactive measures serve as a robust model for other states in combating the pervasive issue of cybercrime.