In a distressing incident, a retired Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) in Mumbai fell prey to an online fraud, losing a substantial amount of Rs 1.76 lakh. The 72-year-old former IPS officer reported the incident to the Bandra police station, prompting an immediate investigation into the matter.
Upon receiving the complaint, a team from the Bandra police station initiated a thorough probe, leading to the apprehension of a SIM card dealer from Jalgaon, Maharashtra. The accused, identified as Ajay Birhade, was found to be involved in the fraudulent scheme, operating in collusion with another accomplice who remains at large.
Investigations revealed that Birhade orchestrated the activation of SIM cards used in criminal activities, ensuring they were registered in Rajasthan. Furthermore, during interrogation, Birhade confessed to his involvement in a cyber-phishing gang, shedding light on the intricate workings of the fraudulent operation.
The accused has been charged under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Information and Technology (IT) Act. Following his arrest, Birhade was presented before the appropriate authority, which granted his remand to police custody for further questioning.