STF nabs three cyber criminals with links to Chinese and Pakistani agents

Tuesday, 27 AUGUST 2024 | PNS | DEHRADUN

The cyber crime police station of Uttarakhand Special Task Force (STF) apprehended three cyber criminals in Delhi. The trio is allegedly a part of an international cyber crime network with links to Chinese and Pakistani agents, the STF deputy superintendent of police of cyber crime police station, Ankush Mishra said. He informed that the arrests followed a complaint from a Dehradun resident who lost about Rs 23 lakh in a cyber scam while seeking a job. When the STF started investigation, it was revealed that fraudsters contacted job seekers using fake IDs and emails that mimicked reputable companies. They tricked victims into making payments for document verification, job security, and other services under the guise of offering overseas jobs. The stolen money was deposited into fake bank accounts opened using original Aadhaar and PAN cards, with account details being sent to Dubai for further use in cryptocurrency transactions, Mishra said. He said that the accused, connected to cyber criminals in Dubai, China and Pakistan, were involved in transferring funds to USDT cryptocurrency accounts through platforms like Binance and Trust Wallet. Items recovered from the accused included six mobile phones, 16 SIM cards, 42 bank passbooks, cheque books, debit cards and other documents. Based on technical surveillance, the police caught three accused- Almas Azam (29), Anas Azam (25) and Sachin Agarwal (41) at Janakpuri West metro station in Delhi late on Sunday. The DSP said that the accused have been linked to multiple cyber crimes across India, with bank accounts operated in several states. The investigation is ongoing. He also urged the public to exercise caution and verify any job offers, investment schemes or online solicitations before sharing personal information or making payments. Victims of cyber fraud are advised to contact the helpline number 1930, he added.