Srinagar, Apr 06: Cyber Police Station Kashmir has unearthed a massive network of cyber frauds involving the creation of 7,200 mule accounts across the Valley since January 1, 2025. This revelation was made by SSP Srinagar, Imtiyaz Hussain during a press conference, where he highlighted the scale and modus operandi of the fraud.
Explaining the concept, SSP Imtiyaz said a mule account is one opened by individuals—often on commission—for cyber fraudsters. These accounts remain active for a day or two, just enough for stolen money from victims to be funneled in and quickly withdrawn or converted into cryptocurrency or US dollars. The funds vanish within minutes to an hour, leaving little trace.
“This is a very big crime. So far, we have registered four FIRs and arrested 21 individuals—19 of them from Srinagar. Areas such as Mehjoor Nagar, Natipora, Nowgam, Lasjan, Padshahi Bagh, Nowhatta, Khanyar, Rainawari, Soura, Batmaloo, Noor Bagh, Qamarwari, and Parimpora have emerged as hotspots,” he said. Similar accounts have been found in districts like Ganderbal, Bandipora, Pulwama, and Kulgam, and even parts of Jammu.
The SSP warned that strict legal action awaits those involved. “Anyone who has opened a mule account and received money from cyber fraud will face serious legal consequences, including imprisonment of up to 10 years,” he stated. However, he offered a window for cooperation: “If someone voluntarily comes forward, returns the money, and reveals who guided them, we will consider legal options to help them.”
The investigation has been aided by the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C), Ministry of Home Affairs, and is ongoing. “This is a vast network, and everyone—whether a mule account holder or a kingpin—will be brought to book,” said the SSP.
He also shared that some cyber fraud operations are being run from countries like Myanmar, Vietnam, Thailand, and the Philippines, where people are lured through fake job ads on Facebook and Telegram.
Appealing to the public, especially parents, SSP Imtiyaz urged vigilance. “Opening a bank account is a conscious act, and those doing so for fraud will be prosecuted. The law will catch up with them,” he emphasized. He assured that all 7,200 individuals linked to these mule accounts will be interrogated and the entire racket dismantled soon.
