In a major cyber crime crackdown, Shivamogga police have arrested a man for allegedly supplying bank account details to online fraudsters and operating multiple fake accounts linked to large-scale financial fraud across the country.
The accused, Sharath Kumar alias Gunda, a resident of Tunga Nagar and a driver by profession, was taken into custody following a complaint filed by a local tea stall owner.
Friend’s account misused
According to police, Sharath allegedly approached his friend Amit and sought details of his bank account, including the passbook, ATM card and linked mobile number. He reportedly assured Amit that he would receive a commission every fortnight.
Trusting him, Amit shared the details. However, Sharath later informed him that the bank account had been frozen. Growing suspicious, Amit visited the bank branch, where he was shocked to learn that 51 cyber crime complaints had been registered against his account.
He immediately approached the police, prompting an investigation.
Massive fraud network uncovered
During the probe, officers arrested Sharath and seized 18 passbooks, 25 ATM cards, seven cheque books, two mobile phones and two QR codes from his possession.
Investigations revealed that Sharath allegedly operated 19 fake bank accounts, against which more than 96 fraud cases have been registered across India. Police said the accounts were used to siphon off approximately ₹55,43,56,248 from unsuspecting victims. Records show that ₹11,48,42,898 had been transferred through these accounts.
Sharath has been remanded to judicial custody.
Police action
The investigation was led by Additional Superintendents of Police Kariappa and Ramesh, Cyber Crime DySP Krishnamurthy and Inspector Manjunath under the guidance of Superintendent of Police B. Nikhil.
Police have urged citizens not to share bank details, ATM cards or OTPs with anyone, even acquaintances, as cyber fraud networks increasingly target individuals through personal contacts.