Did Bidhannagar Police Uncover a SIM Box Racket?
Synopsis
In a bold move, Bidhannagar Police have uncovered a significant SIM box racket, arresting one individual and seizing numerous devices. This operation highlights the ongoing battle against illegal telecom activities that threaten national security and government revenues. Stay tuned as investigations intensify.
Key Takeaways
Bidhannagar Police successfully dismantled an illegal SIM box operation.
Over 2,500 active SIM cards and several telecom devices were seized.
The operation posed risks to national security and caused significant revenue losses.
Investigations are ongoing to uncover a larger network.
The arrested suspect has admitted involvement in the racket.
Kolkata, Feb 15 (NationPress) In a significant operation based on confidential intelligence, the Bidhannagar Police Commissionerate in West Bengal has dismantled an illegal SIM box operation and apprehended a suspect, as reported by officials on Sunday.
Police from the Commissionerate's Intelligence Department conducted a raid at flat number 5B, located on the fifth floor of a residential complex in Hatiara, Rajarhat, near Kolkata, on Saturday, successfully dismantling the operation.
During the raid, authorities seized nine SIM box machines, over 2,500 active SIM cards, multiple keypad mobile and Android devices, along with networking devices utilized for VoIP routing and GSM termination, including routers, cables, power units, and other related accessories.
According to police sources, while the flat appeared to be a typical residence from the outside, it was secretly hosting sophisticated telecom operations illegally.
Intelligence reports indicate that international calls were being routed illegally to India from this flat. The sophisticated SIM box technology was converting incoming VoIP calls from abroad into local calls, thereby bypassing the legal international gateway exchange and telecom regulations, leading to substantial revenue losses for the government.
During the operation, police apprehended the suspect, Abir Sheikh, also known as Monirul Islam Sajib, red-handed within the premises. Investigators stated that he was actively operating several SIM box devices. Upon preliminary interrogation, he admitted his involvement in the racket.
Authorities' initial assessment suggests that this operation might be connected to a larger interstate or possibly international network. Investigations are underway to trace the financial transactions, the means of acquiring SIM cards, and other potential accomplices.
Officials from the Bidhannagar Commissionerate are currently interrogating the suspect in custody to further investigate the operation. A representative from the Intelligence Department emphasized, "These illegal SIM box operations not only result in losses for telecom revenues but also pose significant risks to national security. Comprehensive investigations are being conducted to identify other individuals involved in this scheme."
Point of View
It's imperative to recognize the gravity of such illegal activities. This incident underscores the importance of vigilant law enforcement in safeguarding our nation's financial and security interests. The rise of sophisticated telecom frauds poses significant challenges that require immediate and thorough investigation.
NationPress
29 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What was discovered during the raid?
Authorities discovered nine SIM box machines, over 2,500 active SIM cards, and various telecom devices.
Who was arrested in connection with the racket?
The suspect arrested is Abir Sheikh, also known as Monirul Islam Sajib.
What was the operation's impact on national security?
The operation posed a significant threat to national security by bypassing legal telecom regulations and causing revenue losses.
Is this racket part of a larger network?
Initial investigations suggest it may be linked to a larger interstate or international network.
What actions are police taking following the raid?
Police are interrogating the suspect and investigating further to identify other individuals involved.
