Keonjhar: The Cyber Police in Odisha’s Keonjhar district achieved a significant breakthrough by dismantling a widespread illegal SIM card racket. The operation led to the arrest of four individuals involved in the illicit activity, shedding light on the extent of the network’s reach.
The four individuals arrested in connection with the illegal SIM card racket were Rajkishore Jena, Tapan Kumar Jena, and Subrat Kumar Jena of Khadibili village under Ghashipura police limits, along with Pradeep Mishra of Saikukul village under Ramachandrapur police limits in Keonjhar district.
Under the leadership of IPS officer Ramendra Pratap, the Cyber Police conducted a targeted operation that resulted in the apprehension of the accused. The investigation uncovered a substantial cache of around 4,000 illegal SIM cards distributed across different parts of the country.
During the operation, the police seized a significant amount of evidence from the possession of the arrested individuals. The recovered items included Rs 5,000 in cash, 538 illegal SIM cards, 18 mobile phones, and seven cheque books. These findings highlighted the magnitude of the illegal network and the sophistication employed by the perpetrators in their activities.
The geographical spread of the illegal SIM card racket was notable, indicating a nationwide presence. This suggested that the arrested individuals were part of a well-organized network involved in the unauthorized sale and distribution of SIM cards.
With the evidence collected during the operation, the Cyber Police are poised to build a strong case against the arrested individuals. Legal proceedings will aim to expose the full extent of the illegal SIM card network and hold those involved accountable for their actions.
Suparjya Swain
