CBI, FBI bust global cybercrime network; 1 held

The CBI arrested one Vishnu Rathi in connection with a cyber-fraud network that had allegedly embezzled the funds of a US citizen. The arrest was made during CBI’s ongoing Operation CHAKRA-III, aimed at dismantling a sophisticated virtual asset and bullion supported cybercrime network that has been targeting victims in foreign countries since 2022.

The operation was executed in coordination with the US’ FBI. The International Operations Division of the CBI registered a case on September 9 against the suspects, including Vishnu Rathi, a key suspect, under Sections 120-B and 420 of the IPC, as well as Section 66-D read with 75 of the Information Technology Act, and launched an investigation. It was alleged that the suspects had, between June and August 2022, conspired to target a US citizen by gaining unauthorised remote access to the victim’s computer and bank account.

It was also alleged that under the pretext of offering tech support services, they falsely informed the victim that her bank account had been compromised. Claiming that the funds were at risk, they manipulated the victim into transferring $4,53,953 to cryptocurrency wallets controlled by them.

Following the registration of case, the CBI conducted extensive searches at multiple locations linked to the suspects. Searches were conducted at seven locations across Mumbai and Kolkata on September 12 and 13. The CBI found that the transnational cybercrime network was channelling proceeds of crime through virtual assets and bullion.

During search at the residence of accused Vishnu Rathi, 57 gold bars of 100 gm each, cash of Rs 16,00,000, mobile phone, laptop used to manage crypto currencies, details of lockers and other incriminating documents were recovered. The CBI subsequently arrested Vishnu Rathi from Mumbai. Further operations were on to identify the victims of crime and proceeds of crime, sources said. The CBI is coordinating with FBI in multiple countries through INTERPOL for follow up on leads.

Operation CHAKRA-III has been initiated by CBI to combat and dismantle organised cybercrime networks through a globally coordinated law enforcement response.