Police Action

Nainital Police have busted an alleged international cybercrime racket in Mukhani, Haldwani. Officers arrested six people during a late-night operation. Two young people were taken into protective custody. Police said the group moved more than ₹5 crore through suspected cyber fraud in four months.

₹5 Crore Fraud

Police said the suspects used mule bank accounts to handle money linked to cyber fraud. They allegedly collected bank accounts, ATM cards, cheque books and passbooks from other people. They offered commissions in return. The group also dealt in USDT cryptocurrency through an unauthorised app. Police said the suspects used Telegram to access the app.

Digital Evidence

The police team seized several items during the raid. The recovery included 11 mobile phones, one laptop and one iPad. Officers also found 24 ATM cards, 12 SIM cards, six cheque books and four passbooks. Police recovered ₹1.18 lakh in cash and several bank deposit slips. These items could help investigators trace the suspected money trail and digital activity.

Investigation Continues

The operation took place under Operation Hotspot-2026. Mukhani Police, the SOG and the Cyber Cell worked together on the case. Police said two other suspects remain wanted. Authorities have registered a case under the Information Technology Act and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. The investigation will focus on the suspected network, financial transactions, and digital links.

Stay Safe

Police have warned people against giving their bank accounts or ATM cards to strangers for commission payments. Such accounts can become part of a cyber fraud network without the owner’s full understanding. People should report suspicious transactions quickly. The case shows how criminals can combine bank accounts, cryptocurrency, and online platforms in a modern cybercrime investigation.