HYDERABAD, NOV 13 : In a significant crackdown on cybercrime, the Telangana Cyber Security Bureau (TGCSB) arrested 48 individuals across the state in coordination with local police.

This operation, aimed at supporting the state’s Zero Tolerance Policy towards cybercriminals, targeted suspects involved in 508 cases within Telangana and 2,194 cases nationwide, with total losses reported at approximately Rs 8.16 crore, a police statement said on Wednesday.

The arrests were the result of extensive cybercrime data analysis and follow-up action initiated under TGCSB HQ Police Station Case No. 36/2024, under provisions of the ITA Act 2008, Section 66D, and various sections of the Telangana Cybersecurity Act.

Among those arrested were 38 mule account holders and 10 agents who supplied these accounts for fraudulent activities. The agents reportedly enticed account holders with commission-based incentives, which were then used in cybercrimes such as business investment scams, job frauds, digital identity theft, and courier scams.

TGCSB Director, Shikha Goel, praised the team led by Devender Singh, SP, along with Dy SPs K V Surya Prakash, Harikrishna, KVM Prasad, and Inspectors Ramesh, Ashish Reddy, Ravi Kumar, Srinivas, Mahender, Laxminarayana, Muqeed Pasha, and Venkateshwar Rao for their commitment and diligence in coordinating the multi-district operation.

During the operation, TGCSB seized 53 mobile phones, 4 laptops, 5 CPUs, 2 monitors, 18 bank passbooks, 16 cheque books, 10 ATM cards, and a Bajaj Pulsar bike. These items are expected to provide further leads on cybercrime networks in the state and beyond.

The arrested include a mix of unemployed individuals and professionals, such as cab drivers, small business owners, and IT employees. Educational backgrounds varied, with 22 holding degrees, 17 with secondary to intermediate qualifications, and 9 with below-SSC education.

The TGCSB urges the public to exercise caution when sharing personal or financial information online. Verify payment requests and transaction legitimacy before proceeding, and report any suspicious activity through the TGCSB helpline at 1930 or online at cybercrime.gov.in.

This operation highlights TGCSB’s ongoing efforts to strengthen cybersecurity and deter cybercriminals within Telangana. All arrested individuals have been handed over to relevant police units for further investigation and legal action.