Mumbai Police Bust Cyber Fraud Racket Using Petrol Pumps for Cash Conversion; One Arrested

In a significant breakthrough, the Sir JJ Marg Police have exposed a new and sophisticated method adopted by cyber fraudsters, where cheated money is routed through multiple bank accounts and later converted into cash via petrol pumps. One accused, identified as Rahul Kumar Shaitanmal Sen (23), has been arrested in connection with the case.

According to police, Sen, a resident of Pali in Rajasthan, played a key role in the racket by facilitating the transfer of fraud money through petrol pump accounts in exchange for commission. Several others—Aftab Imran Sayyed (22), Mohammad Shadab Ashfaq Khan (25), Abdul Qadir Allauddin (40), Amit Subhashchandra Mishra (34), and Sanoj alias Pintu Singh (38)—were detained for questioning and later released after being issued notices.

Well- Organised  Network

Investigations have revealed that the gang first obtained money through online fraud and then moved it across multiple bank accounts to obscure its origin. The funds were eventually routed to petrol pump accounts, where they were converted into cash.

Police officials said the racket operated through a structured network, with members assigned specific roles. While some arranged fake or rented bank accounts, others handled fund transfers, and a few managed cash dealings at petrol pumps. Each member was paid a commission for their role, ensuring the smooth operation of the syndicate.

At petrol pumps, gang members collected cash from customers and deposited an equivalent amount into bank accounts, thereby converting digital fraud money into liquid cash under the guise of routine transactions.

During interrogation, Sen admitted to working as a cash conversion agent. He was responsible for converting digital funds into cash through petrol pumps and circulating it further within the network for commission.

Police have recovered ₹47,000 in cash, multiple mobile phones, and crucial banking transaction records from the accused. Analysis of the seized mobile devices has revealed links to other suspects, pointing to a larger interstate network.

As part of the investigation, police have frozen ₹74,000 in various bank accounts. Officials believe the racket may have connections in other cities and states.

The case was cracked through detailed technical scrutiny of bank transactions and digital evidence. Efforts are underway to trace the mastermind and other members of the gang.

The investigation is being carried out under the direction of DCP (Zone I) Pravin Munde. Senior Police Inspector Rais Shaikh is supervising the probe at JJ Marg Police Station, while Police Inspector Rahul Pawar is leading the investigation.