Tamil Nadu Cyber Crime Wing Strikes Again with 24 SIM Boxes Seized in the National Capital

Chennai, Oct 2025 : In a technologically sophisticated operation targeting transnational cybercrime and digital arrest rackets, the Tamil Nadu Police has achieved a major breakthrough by dismantling a network of automated fraud-calling machines—commonly known as SIM boxes—operated remotely by foreign nationals in New Delhi.

The Tamil Nadu Cyber Crime Wing Headquarters successfully uncovered yet another international SIM box network functioning across multiple Indian states. Earlier in September 2025, following intelligence-led surveillance, coordinated raids were carried out across Tamil Nadu. These operations resulted in the seizure of 14 high-capacity Quectel SIM boxes in Chennai and the arrest of six suspects.
Subsequent investigations led to the recovery of one additional SIM box, while five others were found destroyed by the accused in Ramanathapuram District, allegedly to evade arrest.

Network Extends to Multiple States

Further investigation revealed that the key suspect had handed over eight SIM boxes to contacts in Delhi. The probe exposed that the same organized network had extended its operations to Delhi, Mumbai, and Bihar, signaling a vast interstate cybercrime nexus.

Acting on these leads, Dr. Sandeep Mittal, IPS, Additional Director General of Police, Cyber Crime Wing, directed the formation of multiple investigation teams under the supervision of Tmt. I. Shahnaz, IPS, Superintendent of Police, State Cyber Crime Investigation Centre.
These specialized teams, comprising Deputy Superintendents and Inspectors of Police, simultaneously launched raids across Delhi, Bihar, and Maharashtra to track down the suspects and seize further evidence.

Raids in the National Capital Yield Major Results

The coordinated operations led to the discovery of SIM boxes at two locations in Narela and one in Nilothi, both in New Delhi. The special task force arrested Tarikh Alam (19), son of Ayub Alam, a resident of Nilothi, along with two of his associates — Lokesh Kumar (33), son of Prem Singh, and Ashok Kumar (40), son of Layak Ram.

The raids culminated in the seizure of 24 SIM boxes—16 from Narela and 8 from Nilothi—both hotspots in the national capital. Forensic analysis of tower dump data and digital evidence is currently underway to identify the broader network, trace financial transactions, and determine the full scope of the illegal operation.

Used in ‘Digital Arrest’ Scams

A detailed examination of Call Detail Records (CDRs) and network activity revealed that these SIM boxes were extensively used for “Digital Arrest” scams—a rising form of cyber fraud orchestrated by international scam syndicates. These operations involve impersonating law enforcement officers to extort money from victims under the false pretext of criminal investigations.

Major Blow to International Cyber Syndicates

In its sustained fight against cybercrime, the Tamil Nadu Cyber Crime Wing has, over the past two months, successfully dismantled 44 SIM boxes linked to international cybercrime syndicates. This latest operation marks a major blow to such networks that exploited these devices to run fraudulent VoIP call routing hubs.
The ongoing forensic analysis aims to identify interstate and intrastate linkages to fully dismantle the infrastructure enabling these scams.

Public Advisory Issued

Emphasizing the importance of public awareness in combating cybercrime, Dr. Sandeep Mittal, IPS, Additional Director General of Police, Cyber Crime Wing, urged citizens to remain cautious and follow these key advisories:

Advisory to the Public:

• Do not be misled by offers of commission for opening bank accounts, operating SIM boxes, or transporting electronic devices.
• Do not panic if you receive calls claiming involvement in a crime. Scammers use fear tactics; there is no such thing as a “Digital Arrest” or online detention in India.
• Government agencies never demand payment for grievance redressal or verification processes.
• Never share personal or banking details such as Aadhaar, PAN, bank credentials, or OTPs via phone or video calls.
• Avoid video calls from unknown persons claiming to be officials. Fraudsters may use AI-generated or pre-recorded visuals to impersonate officers.
• Do not download remote access apps like AnyDesk or TeamViewer when instructed by unknown callers. These can give scammers full control of your device.

Cyber Vigilance and Reporting

The Tamil Nadu Cyber Crime Wing reaffirmed its commitment to protecting citizens from online fraud through continuous surveillance, interstate coordination, and rapid response measures.
Citizens are urged to remain alert and report any suspicious cyber activities immediately.

If you fall victim to such scams, dial the toll-free helpline 1930 or register your complaint at www.cybercrime.gov.in.