Mumbai Crime Branch Dismantles Goa-Based Cyber Fraud Racket Linked to Sri Lanka and Dubai

GOA, India — The Mumbai Crime Branch Unit-2 arrested 12 individuals on Saturday after dismantling a sophisticated cyber fraud network operating out of Goa that utilized digital arrest scams and illicit financial channels. The operation targeted a syndicate suspected of orchestrating fraudulent transactions routed through Dubai under the direction of handlers based in Sri Lanka.

The investigation was initiated following multiple complaints registered at the Pydhonie Police Station regarding unauthorized access to bank accounts and money laundering activities involving mule accounts. Authorities traced the digital footprints of these illicit transfers, which led them to a physical hub in Goa where members of the gang were coordinating operations across international borders.

Among those arrested is Iliyaz Memon, identified as a resident of Mumbai who played a central role in the racket's domestic coordination. The remaining suspects hail from Ahmedabad and Rajkot in Gujarat. Police stated that the group specialized in "digital arrest" schemes, where victims are deceived into believing they have been detained by law enforcement agencies online. Perpetrators then demand immediate payments to secure their release or avoid legal prosecution.

The Mumbai Crime Branch conducted coordinated raids across Goa early Saturday morning. During the searches, officers recovered mobile devices, laptops, and documentation detailing financial transactions linked to shell companies in Dubai. The seized evidence reportedly outlines a complex money trail designed to obscure the origin of stolen funds before they were laundered through international banking systems.

While 12 suspects are currently in custody awaiting further interrogation, police indicated that the network's leadership remains at large. Authorities believe an alleged mastermind is operating from Sri Lanka, directing operations remotely while maintaining communication with local operatives via encrypted channels. The connection to Dubai suggests a broader financial infrastructure used to move illicit funds across jurisdictions.

The Goa-based unit of the racket reportedly functioned as a recruitment and execution center, where new victims were targeted and initial fraud attempts were launched before funds were transferred abroad. Investigators are currently examining bank records linked to the arrested individuals to identify additional accomplices who may have facilitated money transfers or provided technical support for the digital scams.

As the investigation continues, authorities face challenges in locating the primary architect of the scheme based outside Indian territory. Legal proceedings will likely involve international cooperation with Sri Lankan and Emirati law enforcement agencies to trace the mastermind and recover stolen assets held overseas. Police have urged victims who suffered financial losses through similar digital arrest scams to come forward as inquiries expand into other potential cases linked to this network.