Telangana police have dismantled one of the largest cyber fraud networks in recent years, exposing a Rs. 550 crore money laundering operation that used fake call centres, mule bank accounts, and cryptocurrency channels.

The breakthrough came after a complaint filed on December 24, 2025, by Saikiran, a resident of Tumburu village in Sathupalli mandal. What seemed like a routine cyber fraud case grew into a complex probe, uncovering three years of illicit activity across India and abroad.

Investigators found unemployed youth were lured with promises of commissions and jobs, only for their bank accounts to be exploited for large-scale laundering. Prime accused Potru Manoj Kalyan, already in judicial custody, was linked to 17 further arrests on Sunday. Data from the national Cyber Crime Portal showed hundreds of complaints tied to the same accounts, many linked to overseas call centres scamming victims in Australia and other countries.

Police identified Potru Praveen as the kingpin, supported by Udathaneni Vikas Chowdary and Morampdu Chenna Keshava. The gang operated from Khammam, diverting funds from crypto scams, share market frauds, and online betting. A fake Madhapur call centre alone siphoned nearly Rs. 10 crore before being busted in November 2025.

Financial analysis revealed Rs. 549.95 crore moved through the accused’s accounts, with over Rs. 270 crore linked to one family. Commissioner Sunil Dutt confirmed international connections, with funds routed back to India and large sums converted into cryptocurrency to avoid detection. Six key accused remain absconding, while special teams pursue overseas leads.

Police have warned citizens against “easy income” schemes and urged reporting via the 1930 cybercrime helpline. “Every rupee will be traced, and every link—domestic or overseas—will be pursued,” said Commissioner Dutt.