Patna Cyber Police are investigating an alleged mule-account network in which bank accounts opened in the names of hundreds of villagers were reportedly used to route money linked to cyber fraud. Police believe the network could involve more than ₹5 crore in suspected fraudulent transactions, although the exact amount remains under investigation.
The case emerged after villagers in the Pandarak area approached cyber police with complaints about bank accounts allegedly opened in their names. Investigators are now examining how the accounts were created, who controlled them and whether other individuals or institutions were involved.
Hundreds of Bank Accounts Under Investigation
According to the investigation, approximately 400 to 500 villagers may have had bank accounts opened in their names as part of the suspected network. Other recent reporting has described the number as more than 500 accounts, indicating that the scope of the investigation is still being established.
Police allege that villagers were approached with promises of benefits under government welfare schemes. These reportedly included assistance connected with food procurement, sanitation and other government programmes.
The accounts and associated SIM cards were allegedly activated after the villagers were persuaded to participate. Investigators suspect that the accounts were subsequently used by cybercriminals for financial transactions.
Loans and Fraud-Linked Transactions Examined
Police are also investigating allegations that loans worth lakhs of rupees were obtained through some of the accounts opened in villagers' names.
According to the reports, some account holders became aware of the alleged misuse only after receiving information related to bank transactions or loan obligations. The investigation is examining whether the villagers knowingly participated in the activity or whether their identities and banking details were allegedly misused.
A woman identified in the investigation as Sita Devi was arrested following questioning, according to police. Authorities are continuing to investigate the roles of other suspected members of the network.
Phones, SIM Cards and Banking Documents Recovered
Following information obtained during the investigation, cyber police conducted a search linked to another alleged network participant. Police reported recovering mobile phones, SIM cards, a walkie-talkie, cheque books, passbooks and ATM cards.
Separate reporting on the wider Patna investigation has also described the recovery of mobile phones, SIM cards, biometric equipment and banking documents during searches. These materials are being examined as investigators attempt to establish how the accounts were activated and controlled.
Police are also examining whether any bank officials, agents or other intermediaries may have facilitated the opening or operation of the accounts. Any such involvement remains subject to investigation.
Police Trace a Wider Cybercrime Network
The suspected Patna network comes amid a broader Bihar Police drive against mule accounts. The Times of India reported that Bihar Police had identified 3,177 suspected mule accounts under its Cyber PRAHAR-4.0 campaign and had verified 762 of them at the time of its September 25 report. Police had also registered 15 FIRs and arrested seven people allegedly involved in cybercrime linked to mule accounts.
In the Pandarak case, investigators are now tracing the movement of money through the accounts and attempting to identify other people allegedly connected with the operation.
The case highlights the risks of allowing another person to control a bank account, ATM card or banking credentials. Individuals and businesses should maintain proper financial controls and records, including through bookkeeping services in india, while ensuring that banking credentials and identity documents are not handed over to unauthorised persons.
Investigation Into the Alleged ₹5 Crore Network Continues
Police estimate that transactions connected with the suspected network could exceed ₹5 crore, but the final figure will depend on the ongoing examination of bank records and transaction trails.
The investigation is continuing, with police searching for other suspected participants and examining how villagers' accounts and associated banking instruments were allegedly used. The allegations against individuals involved remain subject to investigation and due legal process.