5 arrested in Kolkata cyber fraud case, devices seized

Five persons have been arrested in connection with an ongoing cyber fraud case registered at Cyber Police Station, Kolkata, following a raid conducted in the Maheshtala police station area. The arrests were made on January 24 based on statements of previously arrested accused and credible source information.

According to police, the accused were involved in an organised cybercrime network that targeted unsuspecting victims through malicious APK files. These files were circulated via advertisements and links on social media platforms, luring users into downloading them onto their mobile phones.

Once installed, the APK files allegedly allowed the accused to gain unauthorised remote access to victims’ devices, including control over banking and financial applications. Investigators said the accused used this access to siphon money from bank accounts and transfer funds to accounts under their control.

During the operation, police seized 10 laptops, 24 Android mobile phones, two routers and multiple incriminating digital screenshots. Officials stated that further investigation has revealed the arrested individuals were acting in coordination with earlier accused as part of the same criminal conspiracy, and the probe is continuing.