Mumbai Man Arrested for Facilitating Cyber Fraud via Bank Mule Account
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MUMBAI (AP) — A 32-year-old Mumbai resident was arrested Thursday after authorities determined he allowed his bank account to be used as a conduit for cyber fraud, receiving 10 lakh rupees in exchange for his cooperation.
Swapnil Chavan was taken into custody by the Mumbai Police Cyber Crime Cell following an investigation into a sophisticated fraud scheme that targeted victims across the city. Police stated that Chavan knowingly permitted fraudsters to utilize his account to receive and siphon off funds extorted from a victim. The operation involved impersonation of high-ranking law enforcement officials.
Investigators found that the fraudsters posing as officials from the Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) and the National Investigation Agency (NIA) contacted the victim, creating a false sense of urgency and authority. The perpetrators convinced the victim to transfer funds into Chavan's account, which was then immediately moved to other accounts to obscure the trail of the stolen money. Chavan was arrested on April 17, 2026, at his residence in the Mumbai suburbs.
During the initial interrogation, police recovered the 10 lakh rupees paid to Chavan for his role in the scheme. Authorities described the arrangement as a classic "money mule" operation, where individuals are recruited to clean illicit funds by moving them through legitimate banking channels. Chavan's account served as the primary receiving point before the money was dispersed.
The case highlights the growing trend of criminals exploiting individuals willing to rent out their banking credentials for a fee. Police officials noted that the impersonation of federal agencies like the NIA and ATS is a common tactic used to intimidate victims into compliance. The victim, whose identity has not been released, was targeted through a phone call and subsequent digital communication channels.
Chavan is currently in police custody pending further investigation. Authorities are examining his bank statements to trace the flow of funds and identify the other individuals involved in the network. Police have indicated that additional arrests are likely as the investigation expands to uncover the masterminds behind the operation.
The Mumbai Police Cyber Crime Cell has urged the public to remain vigilant against unsolicited calls claiming to be from law enforcement agencies. Officials emphasized that genuine police officers do not demand money transfers or ask for bank account details over the phone. The investigation continues as authorities work to recover the remaining stolen funds and dismantle the broader fraud ring.