CBI Launches Operation Chakra-VI Against Digital Arrest Fraud

The Central Bureau of Investigation launched Operation Chakra-VI on 25 June 2026 against digital arrest fraud networks in India. The operation covered more than 80 locations across 16 states and involved 60 special teams.

Digital Arrest Fraud

Digital arrest fraud is a cybercrime in which offenders pose as police, court, or government officials and threaten victims with arrest through calls, messages, or video communication. The fraud often uses forged documents, fake notices, and spoofed websites to create pressure on victims.

Shell Companies and Mule Bank Accounts

The investigation linked the case to shell companies and mule bank accounts. Shell companies are entities with no active business operations, while mule bank accounts are accounts used to receive and transfer illicit funds on behalf of others. Two persons, B Naresh of Chennai and Sanjib Saha of Kolkata, were arrested for their alleged role in creating shell companies and operating mule bank accounts. These accounts were used to launder about ₹2 crore of suspected proceeds of crime.

Supreme Court of India Link

The probe found a fake website with a URL similar to the official website of the Supreme Court of India. An FIR was registered after a complaint from the Registry of the Supreme Court of India. The cybercriminal infrastructure was found in more than 200 cases of digital arrest fraud and operated within India and abroad. The network also targeted international victims through online deception.

Important Facts for Exams

• The Central Bureau of Investigation is India’s premier investigating agency for serious crimes and corruption cases.
• Cybercrime cases in India are investigated under provisions of the Information Technology Act, 2000, and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, where applicable.
• Mule accounts are commonly used in money laundering, online scams, and layered fund transfers.
• Fake websites often use look-alike domain names to imitate official institutions and mislead users.

Forensic Seizures

During the searches, investigators seized digital gadgets, mobile phones, and bank transaction records. These items are undergoing forensic analysis for evidence extraction and network mapping.