Kurla, Mumbai: A vigilant branch manager from Punjab National Bank (PNB) has exposed an organized cyber fraud group operating within the Kurla branch, leading to the discovery of 35 bank accounts involved in fraudulent activities. The accounts were allegedly used to deposit illegal funds, which were later withdrawn from foreign locations. The police are investigating the matter.
Background of the Case
The discovery began with a growing number of complaints related to cyber fraud linked to bank accounts at PNB’s Kurla branch. Sanjay Kumar Ram Das, the branch manager, noticed an unusual pattern involving a customer named Amir Firoze Maniyar, who frequently visited the bank to assist various individuals in opening accounts. Each time, the customer appeared with a different person, sparking the manager’s suspicions.
Increased Vigilance and Investigation
Concerned about the rising complaints, Das discussed the issue with Raviraj Gaikwad, a subordinate officer. Both were becoming increasingly suspicious of Maniyar’s activities, believing he could be connected to the fraud cases. This prompted Das to take a closer look at the transactions tied to the accounts Maniyar had helped open.
Maniyar’s Explanation
On November 19, 2024, Das directly confronted Maniyar. Maniyar claimed that he was helping his relatives open accounts for his export business and that the individuals were his family members. According to Maniyar, the reason behind opening so many accounts was for business purposes, and he had assisted about 10 relatives in doing so.
Critical Findings
Das then asked Maniyar to provide the details of the accounts he had helped open, which Maniyar complied with, writing them down in Das’s diary. Upon checking these details against a cyber fraud complaint lodged in Bangalore, Das found that one of the accounts listed was connected to a known cybercrime operation. This finding significantly raised Das’s concerns.
Uncovering 35 Accounts
Das proceeded to investigate further and discovered that since September 2024, Maniyar had helped open 35 accounts at the bank. Additionally, these accounts had suspicious transactions, with money being deposited and withdrawn from foreign locations. VISA cards were also issued for these accounts, further indicating the possibility of illegal activities.
Filing the Complaint and Police Action
After confirming the suspicious nature of the accounts, Das formally filed a police complaint, and the Kurla police registered an FIR. They are now investigating the financial activities surrounding these 35 accounts, including any potential links to international cyber fraud networks.
Current Status of the Investigation
The investigation is ongoing, with the police examining all documentation provided by the bank. However, no arrests have been made as of yet. The authorities are still gathering evidence to build a stronger case and will summon the accused, Amir Firoze Maniyar, for further questioning.
Conclusion
This case highlights the critical role bank employees play in identifying fraudulent activities and preventing larger-scale financial crimes. It also underscores the importance of vigilance and cross-checking suspicious activities within banking operations to protect the integrity of financial systems and the public’s trust. As investigations continue, it’s clear that further revelations may emerge regarding the full extent of the cyber fraud activities.
