Cyber Racket Busted: Philippines & Cambodia Links Exposed

Gurugram Police have successfully dismantled an extensive international cyber fraud network, revealing connections to both the Philippines and Cambodia. Five key operatives have been apprehended for their alleged involvement in running a sophisticated SIM box-based racket responsible for "digital arrest" scams.

The operation was initiated following five separate complaints, leading to coordinated raids in Gurugram's U-Block and Chakarpur areas. Landlords noticed unusual activity in rented accommodations, which had been converted into makeshift technical hubs equipped with electronic gear.

A Special Investigation Team uncovered what officials described as a "mini telecom setup," seizing 13 SIM boxes, 504 active SIM cards, seven Wi-Fi cameras, seven routers, and other networking devices. The arrested individuals, hailing from Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, and Maharashtra, played distinct roles within the syndicate.

Preliminary investigations indicate that one operative was in direct contact with handlers in the Philippines, receiving guidance on setting up SIM boxes and routing calls. Another accused coordinated with associates in Cambodia to convert fraud proceeds into cryptocurrency, primarily USDT, for overseas transfer. The syndicate utilized a smuggling route from the Philippines to Nepal, then Bihar, to bring in illegal equipment across India.

During their operations, the accused admitted to recharging over 2,200 SIM cards for cyber fraud, including "digital arrest" schemes that coerce victims into transferring money. Disturbing links to "cyber slavery" have also emerged, with some victims reportedly trafficked to Cambodia and forced into online fraud activities. Further investigations are ongoing to identify additional network members and financial flows.