How Many Were Arrested in Kerala's Cyber Fraud Crackdown?
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Synopsis
In a significant crackdown on cyber fraud in Kerala, police arrested 263 individuals as part of 'Operation Sai Hunt.' This operation has unveiled a staggering Rs 300 crore scam, marking a major step in the fight against online crime. The authorities are determined to expand their investigation beyond state borders.
Key Takeaways
- 263 arrests made in a major cyber fraud crackdown.
- Operation aimed at dismantling organized cybercrime networks.
- Total losses to victims estimated at Rs 300 crores.
- Investigation will extend beyond state borders.
- Police conducted raids at 102 locations across multiple districts.
Kochi, October 30 (NationPress) - In a major initiative to combat the increasing threat of online scams, the Kerala Police apprehended 263 individuals statewide on Thursday as part of 'Operation Sai Hunt', a well-coordinated effort to dismantle cybercrime syndicates.
The operation, led by ADG of Police S. Sreejith, resulted in the registration of 382 cases targeting those who facilitated fraudsters by either renting or selling their bank accounts or withdrawing illicit proceeds via cheques and ATMs.
“The total financial loss incurred by victims is estimated to be around Rs 300 crores. While some victims are from outside the state, all the suspects are residents of Kerala. Our investigation will expand beyond state borders,” Sreejith stated.
The raids commenced at 7 a.m. on Thursday and extended into the night, covering various districts.
In Ernakulam Rural, the police made 43 arrests, the highest in the state.
The most significant numbers were recorded in Kothamangalam and Muvattupuzha, with eight arrests each, followed by Aluva, Edathala, and Perumbavoor (four each) and Thadiyittaparambu (three).
Officers conducted searches at a total of 102 locations.
In Kalady, the police apprehended Aneesh (40) from Kavalangattuthara House, Srimoolanagaram, whose account received Rs 76.38 lakh through 24 transactions from various sources.
Authorities revealed that this account acted as a mule account through which funds were withdrawn via both cheques and electronic transfers to facilitate organized cybercrime.
In Kothamangalam, Mohammed Yaseen (22) of Vattakkudi, Inchur, was arrested after Rs 2.97 lakh was traced to his account through fraudulent activities.
In Muvattupuzha, those arrested included Ajnas (35) of East Vazhapilly, Sajjad (20) of Mulavoor, Arshad (20) and Musthafa Davood (22) of Peraykkappilly, Shefees (35) of Vazhapilly, Muhammad Rizwan (20) of Peraykkappilly, and Muhammad Shameem (22) of Mulavoor.
The police indicated that these individuals were part of a broader network supporting organized cybercriminals by providing access to local bank accounts.
The ADGP mentioned that similar statewide operations will persist until cybercrime “mule networks” are thoroughly dismantled.
Point of View
I believe this operation by the Kerala Police underscores the urgency of addressing cybercrime. The scale of the arrests and the financial loss involved highlight a growing issue that affects not just local residents but also individuals beyond state lines. It's essential for law enforcement agencies across the nation to collaborate and share intelligence to tackle this pervasive threat effectively.
NationPress
31/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the purpose of 'Operation Sai Hunt'?
The purpose of 'Operation Sai Hunt' was to dismantle cybercrime networks and combat the rising menace of online fraud in Kerala.
How many individuals were arrested during the operation?
A total of 263 individuals were arrested across the state as part of this operation.
What is the estimated financial loss due to the scam?
The estimated financial loss incurred by victims due to the cyber fraud is around Rs 300 crores.
Will the investigation extend beyond Kerala?
Yes, the police have stated that the investigation will extend beyond Kerala to pursue those involved in the scam.
What types of activities were targeted in the operation?
The operation targeted individuals facilitating fraud by renting or selling bank accounts and those withdrawing scam proceeds.
