New Delhi: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has apprehended Pratik Tanpure, a resident of Kalyan, Maharashtra, for his alleged involvement in a sophisticated cyber fraud scheme targeting unsuspecting investors.
Tanpure is accused of supplying SIM cards to a cybercrime gang that lured victims into investing in a fraudulent scheme promising discounted shares of well-known, publicly listed companies.
The arrest is part of the CBI’s ongoing nationwide initiative, “Operation Chakra-V,” aimed at dismantling cyber-enabled financial crimes.
The operation led to searches at ten locations across Delhi, Hisar, Lucknow, Mumbai, Pune, and Nashik, uncovering crucial evidence related to the investment fraud.
In a Crackdown on Cyber Financial Crimes, CBI Conducts Multi-State Searches
— Central Bureau of Investigation (India) (@CBIHeadquarters) June 13, 2025
Arrests a Mumbai Resident under Operation Chakra-V pic.twitter.com/J3i9JSF466
“The accused played a vital role in facilitating the illegal operations of cyber criminal networks by providing pre-activated SIM cards and mule bank accounts,” stated a CBI spokesperson.
“During the searches, we recovered substantial incriminating material that further implicates him in the scheme,” the officer added.
The fraudsters utilized a deceptive mobile application and WhatsApp groups to entice investors with the promise of discounted shares. Once victims invested their money, the accused allegedly misappropriated the funds, resulting in significant financial losses for the public.
The CBI seized digital and documentary evidence during the searches, revealing the intricate methods used to deceive investors. The investigation is ongoing, and the CBI is committed to bringing all those involved in this fraudulent scheme to justice.
