Pune Police Bust Mule-Account Network Linked to ₹1.80 Crore Cyber Fraud, Five Arrested

Police in Pune's Wanwadi area uncovered an alleged network of mule bank accounts and arrested five young men in connection with suspected cyber fraud transactions. Investigators stated that the accused paid people to open bank accounts in their names and then used those accounts to route money obtained through cyber crime. Links to complaints from 19 victims across the country emerged during the investigation, involving an alleged total fraud of ₹1.80 crore.

The case came to light when investigators noticed certain bank accounts appearing repeatedly in different cyber fraud complaints. Police scrutiny revealed that illicit funds reached these accounts either directly or through intermediary layers. Transaction records obtained from Maharashtra Cyber also helped advance the probe. Authorities seized a car during the investigation and are examining the source of funds used for its purchase, along with other potential asset acquisitions.

Investigators stated that one arrested individual played a key role in coordinating and operating the accounts, while another allegedly persuaded acquaintances to open accounts in exchange for a commission. Account holders were reportedly paid around ₹5,000 for providing access to their accounts. Police are currently working to map the complete money flow, identify further layers of the network, and determine the final beneficiaries of the proceeds.

Not yet reported: The articles do not mention whether the account holders who rented out their names have also been formally charged or arrested.