Did CBI Uncover a ‘Global Call Centre’ in Nashik Targeting US and Canadian Nationals?
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Synopsis
In a significant bust, the CBI has dismantled an illegal international call centre in Nashik, Maharashtra, arresting five individuals engaged in cyber fraud targeting victims in the US and Canada. With luxury cars, laptops, and substantial cash seized, this operation highlights the ongoing battle against cybercrime.
Key Takeaways
- Five cyber conmen arrested in Nashik.
- Seven luxury vehicles seized valued at Rs 1 crore.
- 44 laptops and 71 mobile phones recovered.
- Fraudulent activities targeted victims in the US and Canada.
- Investigation ongoing to analyze digital evidence.
Mumbai, Aug 10 (NationPress) The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has apprehended five cyber fraudsters operating out of Mumbai and confiscated seven luxurious vehicles valued at Rs 1 crore, along with 44 laptops, Rs 1.20 crore in cash, and 500 gm of gold during a raid on an unlawful international call centre located at a resort in Nashik, Maharashtra, as reported by an official on Sunday.
The Rainforest Resort in Igatpuri was targeted following the registration of a cyber fraud case on August 8 against six suspects, all hailing from Mumbai, along with unidentified individuals and bank officials for defrauding victims in the US and Canada.
The five individuals apprehended during the operation were named as Vishal Yadav, Shehbaz, Durgesh, Abhay Raj, and Sameer (also known as Kalia and Sohail), according to the official.
The FIR indicated that the accused had formed a criminal conspiracy to engage in financial fraud by impersonating others and conducting phishing or deceptive calls from their illicit call centre, posing as representatives of Amazon Support Services.
The CBI confirmed that they were operating from rented premises in the Rainforest Resort in Igatpuri.
According to the FIR, the accused had been defrauding citizens in the US, Canada, and various other nations, fraudulently obtaining proceeds through gift cards and cryptocurrency.
The call centre employed around 60 operators, including diallers, verifiers, and closers, as stated by the CBI.
The investigation led by the CBI has resulted in the recovery of 44 laptops, 71 mobile phones, and other incriminating digital evidence, as well as Rs 1.20 crore in unaccounted cash, 500 gm of gold, and seven luxury vehicles valued at Rs 1 crore.
Transactions involving approximately 5000 USDT cryptocurrency (worth Rs 5 lakh) and 2000 Canadian Dollars in gift vouchers (equivalent to Rs 1.26 lakh) were discovered. During the searches, 62 employees were found actively operating in the call centre, with schemes to defraud foreign nationals ongoing.
CBI investigators are currently analyzing the data retrieved from the 44 laptops and 71 mobile phones that were utilized within the call centre to target foreign nationals.
Point of View
It's crucial to recognize the CBI's decisive action in tackling cybercrime. This operation not only reflects the agency's commitment to safeguarding citizens but also raises awareness about the growing threat of international fraud schemes. The Nation stands firm in support of efforts that protect individuals from such illicit activities.
NationPress
20/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the CBI's raid in Nashik?
The CBI initiated a cyber fraud investigation resulting in a raid on an illegal call centre suspected of defrauding individuals in the US and Canada.
How many individuals were arrested during the operation?
Five individuals were arrested during the CBI's operation.
What was seized during the raid?
Authorities seized seven luxury cars, 44 laptops, Rs 1.20 crore in cash, and 500 gm of gold.
What type of fraud was being conducted?
The fraud involved impersonating Amazon support services and conducting phishing calls to defraud victims.
How many operators were employed at the call centre?
The call centre was staffed by approximately 60 operators.
