Operation Chakra-V: CBI arrests three in operation targeting transnational cyber fraud network

The Central Bureau of Investigation conducted searches across three States on Tuesday (October 14, 2025) and arrested three people in connection with a transnational cyber fraud case.

Searches were carried out at multiple locations in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Kerala, as part of Operation Chakra-V. The agency registered the case based on an input received from I4C, which functions under the Ministry of Home Affairs.

“In this case, thousands of innocent citizens across India were allegedly cheated of crores of rupees through deceptive online schemes. The fraudulent network, comprising both Indian and foreign nationals, exploited social media platforms, mobile applications, and encrypted messaging services to lure victims with false promises of high returns from online investment and part-time job opportunities,” said the agency.

Shell companies

According to the CBI, the accused persons and their associates had created a complex network of shell companies across India, primarily in Bengaluru, to channel and launder the proceeds of crime. Several unsuspecting individuals were deceitfully appointed as directors in these companies under the guise of part-time employment in e-commerce or fintech operations.

“The fraudsters, including foreign operatives, devised a sophisticated modus operandi involving the use of digital advertisements, bulk SMS campaigns, and SIM box communication systems to promote fraudulent schemes. They recruited individuals through Telegram, WhatsApp, and other social media platforms, collecting KYC documents to create fake profiles and companies,” it said.

Forged credentials

Using forged credentials and fraudulently obtained digital signatures, the accused incorporated several shell companies and opened numerous bank accounts in their names to collect funds from victims.

“The investigation has further revealed that the collected funds were layered and diverted through various payment gateways, UPI platforms, and cryptocurrency exchanges to obscure the trail of money. Large portions of the proceeds were converted into cryptocurrency, gold, or remitted abroad through clandestine channels… several Indian nationals were operating under the direction of foreign-controlled entities involved in illegal online gambling and investment fraud operations,” said the agency, adding that it has traced substantial financial flows to accounts associated with the shell entities.