Kolkata Police rolls out 7 new cyber units at Lalbazar to curb organised digital crime

In a major push against organised cyber fraud, fake SIM trafficking and cryptocurrency-linked money laundering, the state government has approved the expansion of cyber policing in the city. Following formal clearance from Nabanna, the headquarters of Kolkata Police at Lalbazar has operationalised seven specialised branches dedicated to combating cyber crime. The structural framework had been prepared earlier but awaited administrative approval.

Under the new arrangement, seven clearly defined sections have been activated: Cyber Police Station, Organised Cyber Crime Section, Cyber Security and Cyber Safety Section, Cyber Fraud Recovery Cell, Cyber Forensic Laboratory, Cyber Crime Coordination and Support Section, and Social Media Monitoring Cell. Senior inspectors and sub-inspectors have been deployed to lead technology-driven investigations and strengthen enforcement.

The Organised Cyber Crime Section will focus on dismantling fake call centre networks and emerging fraud patterns such as “digital arrest” scams. The Cyber Fraud Recovery Cell has been tasked with acting during the crucial “golden hour” after a complaint is filed, as swift intervention increases the likelihood of freezing and recovering siphoned funds.

To ensure stronger prosecution, the Cyber Forensic Laboratory will examine digital evidence and prepare detailed documentation for court proceedings. The Coordination and Support Section will liaise with police forces across states and, if required, international agencies such as Interpol, especially as several cyber syndicates are believed to be operating from countries including Cambodia, Myanmar and Nepal.

Alongside enforcement, the Cyber Safety Section will conduct awareness programmes in schools and colleges to educate students on digital security. Officials say that with these specialised branches now fully functional, the city will be better equipped to counter organised cyber crime and restore public confidence in online safety.