Bhubaneswar, March 12: The Central Range Police, Cuttack, has been conducting a sustained enforcement drive titled “Cyber-KAVACH” from 13 February to 11 March 2026 to combat cyber financial fraud, dismantle mule bank account networks, and identify illegal SIM issuance across the seven districts of the Central Range.

During the drive, police teams verified 10,166 suspected mule bank accounts linked to cyber fraud investigations. Based on the verification and financial trail analysis, 339 cases have been registered across the districts, 1,417 notices have been served, and 36 accused persons have been arrested so far. Financial scrutiny and timely intervention led to the blocking of ₹50,60,280 in suspicious transactions, preventing further loss to victims.

Investigations also revealed interstate linkages, with several suspect bank accounts being operated from outside Odisha, indicating organized cyber-fraud networks. In addition, 208 bank accounts have been frozen and multiple accounts linked to previous FIRs have been traced during the verification process.

As part of the operation, police also examined the role of Point-of-Sale (PoS) agents suspected of issuing SIM cards in bulk through fraudulent means. A total of 20 PoS outlets were verified, 7 cases registered, and 5 notices served, while further verification and investigation into SIM trails are ongoing.

Financial transaction patterns were also analysed through ATM and cheque withdrawals. Authorities verified 1,502 ATM transactions, leading to the blocking of ₹32,33,327, and examined 171 cheque-linked accounts, resulting in ₹13,94,124 being secured during the investigation process.

The Central Range Police have reiterated their commitment to intensifying action against cybercriminal networks and mule account operators. Citizens are urged to remain vigilant and report cyber fraud immediately by calling 1930 or through the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal.