Uttarakhand’s Special Task Force concluded a week‑long Operation Hotspot, arresting a fraud ring linked to over 200 mule accounts. The raid verified more than 800 bank accounts, blocked hundreds of SIM cards, and seized critical evidence.

  • Over 800 suspect bank accounts verified
  • 644 SIM cards and 630 IMEIs blocked
  • 200+ mule accounts targeted and dismantled

Operation Hotspot: A Step‑by‑Step Overview

The Uttarakhand Special Task Force (STF) launched a state‑wide crackdown from August 24 to September 1, targeting the financial and telecom infrastructure that fuels cyber fraud. Investigators examined 1,236 ATM withdrawal points, filed 159 FIRs, and seized 45 ATM cards, 20 passbooks, two laptops, and 17 mobile phones.

Arrest of the Nawada Group

Additional Director General of Police (Crime, Law & Order) V. Murugesan disclosed that the biggest haul came from Haridwar, where the so‑called “Nawada group” was busted. The gang ran loan scams, fake online trading schemes, and “double your investment” cons through a web of mule accounts. Five members were arrested during the seven‑day operation.

Read Also:Pochettino Signs New 4‑Year Deal with USMNT, Extends to 2030 World Cup

Targeting Telecom Infrastructure

STF blocked 644 suspect SIM cards and 630 IMEI numbers, verified 22 SIM‑POS locations, and lodged 10 new FIRs. Authorities are probing whether fraudulent KYC practices were used to supply SIM cards to cybercriminals.

Historical Background

Cybercrime complaints in Uttarakhand have surged from roughly 12,000 in 2022 to 18,749 in 2026, according to the state helpline. The financial losses recovered through police action total about ₹23.44 crore this year, highlighting the growing menace.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that dismantling such networks not only saves billions of rupees but also restores public confidence in digital banking and telecom services, setting a precedent for other Indian states.

"The speed and technical sophistication of the STF’s operation set a new benchmark for cybercrime enforcement," says cyber‑security expert Dr. Ajay Singh.
Did You Know?: Uttarakhand recorded the highest number of cyber‑fraud cases nationwide in 2024, with loan scams accounting for the majority.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Which other states were linked to the arrested suspects?

A: Investigations revealed over 100 connections to cases in Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, and Punjab.

Q2: How will the police continue anti‑cybercrime efforts?

A: A fresh targeted drive began on September 3 across Dehradun, Haridwar, Udham Singh Nagar, and Nainital, deploying 2,000 personnel and detaining more than 300 suspects for verification.