Bhavnagar, Gujarat: In a major breakthrough against organized cybercrime, police in Bhavnagar have intensified their investigation into a massive digital fraud network known as the Bhavnagar Cyber Fraud Gang. Nine accused individuals arrested in connection with the multi-crore scam were recently presented before a special court, which ordered them to remain in police custody for an additional 12 days to allow investigators to dig deeper into the case.
The fraud case, involving financial transactions worth ₹21.37 crore, has shocked authorities and highlighted the growing threat of cybercrime across India. Officials believe the gang operated a sophisticated network that exploited rented bank accounts to move illegally obtained money across multiple channels.
How the Bhavnagar Cyber Fraud Gang Operated
According to the police investigation, the alleged mastermind behind the Bhavnagar Cyber Fraud Gang is a man identified as Dashrath Ramjibhai Dhandhalya. Authorities claim he formed an organized group that specialized in obtaining bank accounts on commission from unsuspecting or financially vulnerable individuals.
Investigators revealed that the gang reportedly managed to secure access to around 134 bank accounts, which were then used to process fraudulent financial transactions. Money obtained through cyber scams was transferred through these accounts and later withdrawn through ATMs or checks.
Police records indicate that transactions totaling ₹21,37,22,197 passed through these accounts as part of the illegal operation. Once the funds were withdrawn, they were allegedly distributed across multiple locations, making it difficult for authorities to track the money trail.
The large-scale operation eventually came to light after suspicious financial activity was detected. Following the discovery, a formal complaint was registered at the Bortalav Police Station in Bhavnagar, triggering a full-scale investigation.
Strict Legal Action Under Organized Crime Laws
Because of the organized nature of the scam, investigators concluded that the case was far more serious than a standard financial fraud. Authorities have therefore applied strict legal provisions under the Gujarat Control of Terrorism and Organised Crime Act (GCTOC), 2015, in addition to other criminal charges.
Based on a complaint filed by Police Inspector Chauhan, the case has been registered under multiple sections of the Indian Justice Code (BNS) 2023, including Sections 317(2), 317(4), and 61(2). Additionally, the accused face charges under Sections 3(1), 3(2), 3(4), and 3(5) of the GCTOC Act, which are designed to combat organized criminal networks.
Nine Accused Arrested in the Case
Police have so far arrested nine individuals suspected of being directly involved in the activities of the Bhavnagar Cyber Fraud Gang. The accused include:
- Aryan alias Lakhan Shobhrajbhai Joseta
- Shailesh alias Bhuro Hirabhai Chaudhary
- Rahul Govindbhai Gohel
- Shafin Yunusbhai Qureshi
- Mahin Yunusbhai Qureshi
- Mihir Bhagwanbhai Sarvaiya
- Aman Isukbhai Ofthani
- Harshadsinh Ankuba Sarvaiya
- Deepak Vitthalbhai Gohil
Authorities believe these individuals played different roles within the fraud network, from managing bank accounts to withdrawing and distributing the funds.
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Court Hearing and Next Phase of Investigation
After completing an initial two-day police remand, investigators presented the accused before a special court in Rajkot. Police requested 18 additional days of custody to continue interrogations and track the larger network behind the scam.
However, after reviewing the request, the court granted 12 days of additional police remand for the suspects.
During this period, investigators aim to uncover the full structure of the Bhavnagar Cyber Fraud Gang, identify the main masterminds behind the operation, and locate any additional accomplices involved in the network.
Rising Concern Over Cybercrime in India
The Bhavnagar case has once again drawn national attention to the rapid increase in cyber-related financial crimes. Experts say organized cyber fraud networks are becoming more sophisticated, often exploiting digital banking systems and vulnerable individuals to carry out large-scale scams.
As the investigation continues, authorities hope the crackdown on the Bhavnagar Cyber Fraud Gang will help dismantle the wider network and send a strong message to cybercriminals operating across the country.
