Tripura Police block over 16,000 bank accounts used in online scams worth ₹26.93 crore; cybercrime unit ramps up digital fraud investigations.
In a sweeping crackdown against the rising tide of cybercrime, Tripura Police’s Cyber Crime Cell has frozen as many as 16,486 bank accounts in the last one year, following complaints of online fraud from across the state. According to senior police officials, cybercriminals swindled a staggering Rs 26.93 crore from unsuspecting citizens between April 2024 and April 2025.
The alarming figures were shared by a top official of the cybercrime unit, who described online fraud as a “rapidly evolving menace” targeting people across age groups and digital literacy levels.
The Scale of the Scam
Between April 2024 and April 2025, a total of 4,283 cyber fraud complaints were registered through the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal (NCPR). The frauds ranged from online lottery scams, fake job offers, bogus loan schemes, phishing attempts, and impersonation of bank officials—often preying on the elderly and digitally unaware.
“In many cases, people were lured into believing they had won a lottery or were offered instant loans. The fraudsters convinced victims to deposit small amounts as ‘registration fees’ or ‘processing charges’. Once the payment was made, the fraudsters disappeared,” the senior official told this publication.
The cybercriminals, often operating from different parts of the country, use social media platforms, messaging apps, and spoofed websites to approach and manipulate their victims.
Always keep applications and Operating Systems updated with the latest patches. pic.twitter.com/XaPNKM63wq
— Cyber Crime Tripura (@CrimeTripura) May 3, 2025
Online Blackmail on the Rise
In addition to financial frauds, online blackmail and extortion are reportedly growing concerns. Sources within the police department revealed that criminals target emotionally vulnerable or lonely individuals—particularly through romance scams or intimate video calls—and later threaten to leak screenshots or recordings unless money is paid.
“These crimes are psychologically devastating for victims. The perpetrators often use fake identities and engage in long conversations before exploiting the trust they build,” the source added.
Freezing the Trail of Money
The freezing of 16,486 bank accounts, believed to be linked with fraudulent activities, is part of a larger effort by the cyber cell to trace money trails and prevent further transactions. These accounts collectively held Rs 3.38 crore when frozen. However, officials clarified that this is only a fraction of the total defrauded amount, which stood at Rs 26,93,36,186.
So far, the police have managed to recover and refund Rs 25.77 lakh to victims—an encouraging but modest amount compared to the total money siphoned off.
Beware of Investment Fraud. pic.twitter.com/KiELHI1jX4
— Cyber Crime Tripura (@CrimeTripura) May 1, 2025
Dedicated Cyber Police Station Coming Up
To intensify the fight against digital crime, Tripura Police is now in the final stages of launching its first dedicated cybercrime police station in Agartala. The proposed facility will be equipped with high-end digital forensics tools, surveillance systems, and a team of specially trained personnel.
“Cybercrime demands rapid response and technical expertise. The new cybercrime police station will significantly enhance our capacity to investigate, prevent, and prosecute such cases,” said a police source familiar with the development.
Officers with specialized knowledge in cyber forensics, digital banking frauds, and online surveillance will be posted at the station. The plan includes collaboration with financial institutions and tech platforms to strengthen real-time response mechanisms.
Public Awareness Still Key
While enforcement efforts are ramping up, senior officials emphasized the need for greater public awareness and digital education to prevent such crimes. “The public must be cautious about unknown callers, links received via SMS or email, and too-good-to-be-true offers on the internet. Verifying and reporting suspicious activity can prevent more victims from falling prey,” the official said.
Tripura Police also urged citizens to immediately report cyber fraud cases via the 1930 helpline or through the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal (www.cybercrime.gov.in).
As the digital space becomes more central to daily life, the battle between fraudsters and law enforcement is intensifying. With strategic action, improved infrastructure, and public cooperation, Tripura is aiming to stay one step ahead.
Source Courtesy : Tripura Times
