Ahmedabad Police book ‘mule account’ syndicate in cyber fraud probe, Dubai-based kingpin named

The Ahmedabad Crime Branch has registered a case against a suspected cybercrime syndicate accused of facilitating large-scale online fraud and illegal gaming by operating so-called “mule accounts” in Ahmedabad, with the alleged mastermind operating from Dubai.

According to the First Information Report (FIR), the syndicate has been active since October 10, 2024, and is allegedly led by Anil Thakkar, a Dubai-based operator who is accused of orchestrating illegal online gambling and cyber fraud by routing victims’ money through bank accounts opened in the names of local firms on a commission basis.

Police have named Jay Himmatbhai Nai, a resident of Vejalpur, and Tejasbhai Bharatbhai Joshi, a Prahladnagar resident, as key local facilitators. Investigators allege that the duo knowingly opened and operated multiple bank accounts, including one in the name of ‘MyMyLizza Garments’, and shared account credentials with Thakkar in exchange for commission.

The accused used these accounts to receive money siphoned off from victims of cyber fraud and illegal online gaming. The funds were then transferred to other bank accounts, withdrawn in cash, or converted into cryptocurrency for personal gain. Such accounts, commonly referred to as mule accounts, are typically opened solely to enable illegal financial transactions.

The case is part of ‘Operation Mule Hunt’, a statewide drive launched by the Gujarat Police to crack down on networks facilitating cybercrime. During scrutiny of data on the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal, police identified multiple complaints linked to the DCB Bank account of MyMyLizza Garments, prompting a detailed investigation.

A search conducted at the residence of Jay Nai led to the seizure of nine cheque books and seven debit and credit cards linked to accounts across several banks, including DCB Bank, CSB Bank, IDBI Bank, Bank of India, RBL Bank, Central Bank of India and others. Police allege that these instruments had been handed over to Anil Thakkar to operate remotely.

Investigators said Thakkar allegedly provided mobile numbers and email IDs required to open the accounts, while the local accused completed the formalities. Statements recorded during the inquiry suggest that the accounts were opened specifically for illegal use, including online betting and cyber fraud.

A case has been registered under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita dealing with organised crime, cheating and criminal conspiracy. Further investigation is under way to trace the money trail, identify additional mule account holders, and ascertain the total proceeds of crime.

Police officials said efforts are being made to coordinate with central agencies and foreign authorities to track the Dubai-based accused and dismantle the wider network involved in the racket.