Mumbai Police Arrest Man in ₹7.42 Crore Cybercrime Mule Account Racket

The Mumbai police have arrested a man in connection with a cybercrime racket that allegedly routed ₹7.42 crore through a network of mule bank accounts. The arrest follows a detailed investigation into a fraudulent operation that siphoned money from victims across the country, officials said on Sunday.

How the Racket Operated

According to the police, the accused acted as a key link in a chain that collected money from cyber fraud victims and moved it through multiple bank accounts to obscure its trail. These accounts, often opened in the names of unsuspecting or coerced individuals, are referred to as mule accounts in police parlance.

The funds, totalling ₹7.42 crore, were routed through these accounts before being withdrawn or transferred further, making it difficult for authorities to trace the original beneficiaries. The police have not yet disclosed the exact method used to lure victims or the specific nature of the cyber frauds involved.

Arrest and Investigation

The accused was taken into custody from a location in Mumbai, though officials have not revealed his name or age. He is expected to be produced before a local court, where the police will seek his remand for further questioning.

Investigators are now scrutinising the transactions linked to the mule accounts to identify other members of the network. "We are examining bank records and digital footprints to map the entire chain," a police officer familiar with the case said, requesting anonymity.

Rising Cybercrime in Mumbai

The arrest comes amid a surge in cybercrime cases in Mumbai, where fraudsters frequently exploit digital payment systems to dupe residents. Police have repeatedly advised the public to verify the identity of callers and avoid sharing bank details or OTPs.

In recent months, the city has seen a spike in complaints related to online investment scams, phishing, and fake customer care calls. The use of mule accounts has emerged as a common tactic, with fraudsters recruiting individuals through social media or part-time job offers to lend their bank accounts for a fee.

What Happens Next

The police are expected to conduct further raids and may make more arrests as the investigation progresses. They are also working with banks to freeze any remaining funds linked to the racket.

Legal experts say the case highlights the need for stricter KYC norms and faster reporting mechanisms for suspicious transactions. For now, the focus remains on dismantling the network and recovering the stolen money.