CBI Cracks Down on Illegal SIM Card Network, Arrests Telecom Manager and Accomplices

In a move to combat cybercrime, the CBI arrested three individuals, including a Territorial Sales Manager from a major telecom company, for their involvement in the illicit distribution of SIM cards. These SIM cards were being utilized in various fraudulent activities. The arrests were part of ‘Operation Chakra,’ designed to disrupt cybercrime operations. The CBI executed searches at five locations in the Cachar district of Assam. The investigation uncovered a nationwide network of unauthorized SIM card sales, which were instrumental in digital arrest scams, identity theft, deceptive advertising, investment frauds, and UPI-related scams. The investigation found that the Territorial Sales Manager in Silchar, Assam, collaborated with intermediaries to issue unauthorized SIM cards, bypassing proper verification processes. These SIM cards were then sold illegally in large quantities to various middlemen, who then used them to perpetrate cybercrimes. During the searches, law enforcement seized mobile phones, electronic devices, and KYC documents. The accused were brought before a local Magistrate Court, and a transit remand was issued. The individuals are slated to appear before the jurisdictional FIR Court.