Cyber Prahar 3.0 launched after crackdown on mule accounts

Patna: After successful implementation of the second round, the Cybercrime and Security Unit of Bihar on Tuesday launched the next phase — “Cyber Prahar 3.0”.The campaign is one of the biggest state-level operations by the unit aimed at curbing the rising threat of cybercrimes in the state.During the two-month-long Cyber Prahar 2.0 campaign, the unit took strong action against mule bank accounts. Out of 5,078 complaints received on the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal (NCRP), legal action was initiated against 5,036 mule account holders. In March and April this year, a total of 1,216 suspicious mule accounts were identified across the state. The drive resulted in the registration of 122 FIRs and 234 legal actions in total, which included 89 arrests (including 16 in Patna and 11 in Motihari) and 145 notices issued under Section 35(3).District-wise, Patna recorded the highest number of suspected mule accounts at 272, followed by Motihari with 95 and Bhagalpur with 55. The campaign also led to legal action in cyberfraud cases involving approximately Rs72 crore. Investigations revealed serious negligence and possible collusion by bank employees, leading to the arrest of three bank staff — one each from Bhojpur, Katihar and Patna districts.The unit also acted on tipline reports (anonymous complaints) concerning online child exploitation.

Technical investigations identified 20 suspects, resulting in registering of three FIRs and three arrests so far, while investigations into the remaining cases continue.Notable arrests during the campaign include nabbing of accused persons in Patna Cyber Police Station on April 10 and 24, where suspected illegal and objectionable material were recovered from their electronic devices. Similarly, on April 10, an accused was arrested by Cyber Police of Vaishali.

The seized mobile phones have been preserved for forensic examination.Vaibhav Sharma, SP Cyber (Cooperation and Investigation) of the unit, said: “With the rapid expansion of internet and social media usage, cybercrimes in the state have taken newer and more sophisticated forms, including financial frauds, identity theft, fake investment schemes, digital blackmailing and the circulation of objectionable content related to women and children.

Mule accounts are being extensively used to launder money obtained through these illegal activities.

”He further stated that “Cyber Prahar 3.0” will focus on completing action against the remaining mule account holders and conducting detailed investigation and verification of suspicious personnel working in 22 bank branches, where the maximum number of mule accounts were opened during 2025-26.“All cyber police stations in the state are actively participating in this campaign, with special emphasis on coordinated efforts and interstate cooperation,” Sharma added.