How Did CBI Arrest an Accused in an Rs 8 Crore Bank Fraud Case After 20 Years?
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Synopsis
The CBI's successful operation led to the arrest of Mani M. Sekhar, a key figure in an Rs 8 crore bank fraud, who evaded law enforcement for nearly two decades. Using advanced technology, investigators tracked her down in Indore, revealing the complexities of identity changes and evasion.
Key Takeaways
- Advanced technology significantly aids law enforcement in tracking offenders.
- Identity changes can complicate investigations but are not foolproof.
- Long-term evasion of justice can lead to eventual capture.
- The CBI's determination showcases the importance of forensic advancements.
- Cases like these emphasize the need for public awareness in reporting criminal activities.
Bengaluru, July 17 (NationPress) - The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has successfully located and apprehended Mani M. Sekhar, a proclaimed offender involved in a bank fraud case worth Rs 8 crore after nearly two decades of evasion. The suspect had altered her name and identity, relocating to Indore, Madhya Pradesh.
The accused is currently undergoing trial after being elusive for almost 20 years, as stated by a CBI official.
Utilizing advanced image search technology with matching accuracy exceeding 90%, the CBI was able to identify the suspect despite her attempts to conceal her identity.
The investigation initiated on August 1, 2006, included other accused such as Ramanujam Muthuramalingam Sekhar (also known as R.M. Sekhar), Managing Director of M/s Indo Marks Pvt. Ltd., along with his wife, Mani M. Sekhar, who served as Director at M/s Indo Marks & BTC Home Products Pvt. Ltd.
The charges stem from a criminal conspiracy executed between 2002 and 2005, deceiving the State Bank of India (SBI), Overseas Branch, Bengaluru, out of Rs 8 crore by misusing non-fund-based limits linked to M/s Indo Marks Pvt. Ltd. and related entities.
The CBI filed a charge sheet on December 10, 2007, but both key defendants, Ramanujam Muthuramalingam Sekhar and Mani M. Sekhar, evaded trial and failed to respond to multiple summons.
As a result, they were declared proclaimed offenders on February 27, 2009.
Despite numerous attempts to locate them, they remained elusive for years, prompting the CBI to offer a reward of Rs 50,000 for information leading to their capture.
While other co-defendants faced trial, the case against the Sekhars remained unresolved.
Both accused altered their identities, adopting new names: Krishna Kumar Gupta and Geetha Krishna Kumar Gupta.
They also modified their mobile numbers, email addresses, PAN details, and other identifiers prior to the charge sheet.
The CBI used sophisticated analytical tools to track the digital footprints of the absconders.
Through meticulous image comparison and analysis, the agency successfully identified the couple under their new identities in Indore.
Following this identification, a dedicated CBI team conducted field verification and located the suspects in Indore, where they were living under false identities.
During the operation, it was discovered that Ramanujam Muthuramalingam Sekhar had passed away in 2008, while Mani M. Sekhar was arrested on July 12, 2025, and presented to the court in Bengaluru, where she was remanded to judicial custody for ongoing trial proceedings.
The CBI remarked, "This case exemplifies how technology-driven platforms, combined with the unwavering efforts of investigators, can greatly enhance the capability of law enforcement agencies to apprehend long-evading offenders."
Point of View
It is paramount to acknowledge the CBI's steadfast commitment to justice. This case serves as a reminder of the evolving tactics used by law enforcement in the digital age, emphasizing the importance of technology in combating crime. The public's interest in such cases underscores the need for transparency and accountability in the justice system.
NationPress
17/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the amount involved in the bank fraud case?
The bank fraud case involved a sum of Rs 8 crore.
How long did Mani M. Sekhar evade arrest?
Mani M. Sekhar evaded arrest for nearly 20 years.
What technology did CBI use to identify the accused?
The CBI utilized advanced image search technology with high accuracy for identification.
Where was Mani M. Sekhar located before her arrest?
She was found in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, living under a changed identity.
What did the CBI do to encourage information about the absconders?
The CBI announced a reward of Rs 50,000 for clues leading to their capture.
