National: CBI’s Operation Chakra-V Targets Cybercrime
Nationwide Crackdown Launched
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) executed a large-scale operation named Chakra-V, conducting raids across 42 locations in India on June 26, 2025. The operation spanned five states: Rajasthan, Delhi, Haryana, Uttarakhand, and Uttar Pradesh.
Focus on Mule Accounts
The raids targeted a sophisticated cybercrime network utilizing approximately 8.5 lakh mule bank accounts across over 700 bank branches. These accounts facilitated illicit financial transactions, including fund siphoning through UPI-based frauds.
Arrests and Seizures
Nine individuals, including intermediaries, agents, aggregators, account holders, and bank correspondents, were arrested during the operation. The CBI seized mobile phones, bank account opening forms, and KYC records as evidence.
Operation’s Strategic Objective
Based on credible intelligence, Operation Chakra-V aimed to dismantle organized cybercrime syndicates. The CBI identified mule accounts as tools for transferring and withdrawing illicit funds from fraudulent schemes like investment scams and deceptive advertisements.
Role of Mule Accounts
Mule accounts are bank accounts opened under anonymous or third-party names to obscure the identity of cybercriminals. These accounts are used for money laundering and illicit transactions, with account providers, known as money mules, receiving small payments for their cooperation.
Suspected Collusion
Preliminary findings suggest possible collusion between cybercriminals and certain bank officials or agents. The CBI is investigating these connections to uncover the full extent of the network’s operations.
Ongoing Investigation
The CBI’s coordinated searches mark a significant step in combating cyber fraud. Further analysis of seized materials and interrogations of the arrested individuals are expected to reveal additional details about the syndicate’s operations.