A large cyber fraud network operating through thousands of mule bank accounts has come to light in Belagavi, exposing how cybercriminals are exploiting unsuspecting individuals to move illegally obtained money.
Police investigations have revealed that nearly 2,900 bank accounts were used to route fraudulent transactions as part of an organised cybercrime racket. The accounts were reportedly opened or shared by individuals who were lured with promises of quick commissions and easy income.
Belagavi Police Commissioner Bhushan Borase said four cases have been registered at the Cyber, Economic and Narcotics (CEN) Police Station, and investigations are currently underway to trace the main operators of the network.
According to the police, cybercriminals are increasingly targeting unemployed youth and women, convincing them to either share their existing bank account details or open new accounts in exchange for small commissions. Once access is gained, these accounts are used as “mule accounts” to move funds generated through cyber fraud.
“In many cases, people are told they will receive a percentage commission based on the amount transferred through their account. But once the account is handed over, it becomes a channel for large-scale fraudulent transactions,” Commissioner Borase said.
In one instance, a youth from Belagavi allegedly opened nine different bank accounts and handed them over to cyber operators for commission payments. Police found that nearly ₹80 lakh had passed through these accounts before being transferred further.
Another investigation revealed that a man working in Dubai had allegedly opened a bank account in the name of a self-help group through his mother, which was later used to route fraudulent transactions.
Police officials said cybercriminals often approach potential account holders through fake work-from-home offers, online job opportunities, and commission-based schemes, making them believe they are participating in legitimate financial activities.
Authorities have already blocked several identified mule accounts linked to the fraud and are analysing transaction trails to identify the masterminds behind the operation.
So far, no arrests have been made, but police said efforts are ongoing to trace and apprehend those responsible.
Commissioner Borase urged citizens to remain cautious and avoid sharing their bank account details, ATM cards, or online banking access with unknown individuals.
“Allowing your bank account to be used for such transactions can make you legally liable. People must understand that they may face criminal charges even if they claim they were unaware,” he warned.
Police have appealed to the public to immediately report suspicious job offers, commission-based transfer schemes, or requests to use personal bank accounts through the cybercrime helpline.