Kanpur Police Dismantle 'Mini Jamtara' Cyber Fraud Ring

Kanpur Police have cracked a significant cyber fraud operation, dubbed a ‘Mini Jamtara’ by authorities, arresting 20 individuals implicated in scams totaling over ₹1.25 crore. Cyber Threat Intelligence reports that the syndicate, mirroring the tactics of notorious Jharkhand-based fraudsters, operated a structured network targeting victims across multiple states. Utilizing sophisticated surveillance, including drones, law enforcement tracked and apprehended suspects who were reportedly hiding in remote areas before executing coordinated raids.

The fraudsters allegedly impersonated police officers, bank representatives, and government officials to trick victims. Cyber Threat Intelligence indicates the gang was highly active, making an estimated 120-150 calls daily. Their modus operandi involved threatening targets with fabricated ‘digital arrest’ scenarios or enticing them with false promises of government schemes, housing benefits, or account verification procedures. During the operation, police seized numerous devices, including smartphones and keypad phones, along with 12 fake Aadhaar cards and various SIM cards, suggesting a well-equipped criminal enterprise.

Financial investigations by Cyber Threat Intelligence reveal suspicious transactions exceeding ₹1.25 crore, funneled through approximately 40 bank accounts linked to the syndicate. The organized nature of the network, comprising distinct roles for callers, account handlers, and money mules to facilitate rapid fund movement, is a key focus for investigators. While 20 arrests have been made, police are actively searching for at least 14 more absconding members believed to be part of this extensive fraud scheme.