Operation Octopus: Hyderabad Police Lead Nationwide Cybercrime Crackdown

In a major offensive against organised cyber fraud, Hyderabad Police have dismantled a sprawling pan-India network under Operation Octopus , arresting 104 suspects across 16 states . The accused are linked to more than 1,055 cyber fraud cases nationwide, with financial losses estimated at ₹127 crore .

Police Commissioner V.C. Sajjanar said the operation targeted structured cybercrime syndicates involved in fake investment schemes , online trading frauds , and the increasingly prevalent “digital arrest” scam , where criminals impersonate law-enforcement officials to intimidate victims into transferring money.

Investigators found that the fraud ecosystem relied heavily on financial facilitators. Among those arrested were 86 mule account holders who rented out their bank accounts for illegal fund transfers. Another 17 accused acted as account suppliers and aggregators , sourcing and routing accounts to ensure money reached the masterminds through multiple layers. In a significant revelation, a private bank official allegedly assisted the network by facilitating the opening and maintenance of fraudulent accounts.

A detailed forensic probe by the Cyber Crime Police Station, Hyderabad , led to the identification of 151 bank accounts used to divert victims’ funds. To dismantle the network, police formed 32 special teams and conducted coordinated raids over 10 days in cybercrime hotspots including Maharashtra , Delhi , West Bengal , Karnataka , Uttar Pradesh , Gujarat , Andhra Pradesh , and several other states.

The operation resulted in the seizure of 204 mobile phones , 141 SIM cards , 152 bank passbooks , 234 debit and credit cards , 26 laptops , 56 corporate and firm seals , and ₹36 lakh in cash . Officials said seized digital devices are undergoing forensic analysis to trace additional beneficiaries and higher-level operators.

Authorities attribute the sharp rise in cyber fraud to rapid digital payment adoption, easy access to bank accounts and SIM cards, and sophisticated social engineering tactics that exploit fear, urgency, and promises of quick returns.

Commissioner Sajjanar issued a stern warning that anyone aiding cybercriminals , including bank staff or individuals renting out accounts, will face strict legal action . Citizens were urged to remain vigilant, avoid sharing OTPs or banking credentials, and report fraud immediately via helpline 1930 or the national cybercrime portal.

Police confirmed that Operation Octopus is ongoing, with efforts now focused on identifying and arresting the masterminds behind the network.