NEW DELHI: In a crackdown cybercrime , the Central Bureau of Investigation ( CBI ) has dismantled a significant technology-enabled crime syndicate targeting victims worldwide. The operation, dubbed Operation Chakra-III , culminated in the apprehension of 26 key operatives and the confiscation of crucial digital evidence and incriminating material. Synchronized raids were executed at 32 locations spanning Pune, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, and Vishakhapatnam, intercepting 170 individuals engaged in online criminal activities across four illicit call centers .
The accused masqueraded as tech support services, hoodwinking victims, particularly in the US, into believing their systems had been compromised. The cybercriminals falsely asserted that identities were pilfered, coercing victims to transfer funds to new accounts and demanding payments via international gift cards or cryptocurrency. This intricate scam resulted in substantial financial losses for the victims.
The CBI recovered 951 items, encompassing electronic devices, mobile phones, laptops, and financial information. Furthermore, ₹58.45 lakh in cash, locker keys, and three luxury vehicles were seized.
Investigations are underway, with international collaboration with agencies such as the US's Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and INTERPOL to dismantle organized cybercrime networks. Operation Chakra-III exemplifies the CBI's dedication to combating these networks. This operation is an integral part of the CBI's comprehe.