The Belagavi City Police have transferred the high-profile fake call centre scam case to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), Bengaluru, citing the need for advanced technical analysis, international coordination, and additional manpower.
The Belagavi police had uncovered an illegal call centre that allegedly targeted US citizens, defrauding them through threats and false pretences. The case was registered on November 11, 2025, following intelligence from the Internal Security Division (ISD) and an anonymous tip-off. The complaint was filed by ASI LS Chinagundi of the Cyber Crime Police Station, Belagavi, involving multiple cyber and IPC offences.
During the investigation, a team led by ACP Raghu J and Police Inspectors BR Gaddekar and US Avati raided an illegal call centre near Azam Nagar Circle, detaining 33 suspects – 28 men and 5 women from various parts of India. Authorities seized 37 laptops worth ₹6.5 lakh, 38 mobile phones worth Rs1.5 lakh, and three Wi-Fi routers worth Rs10,000.
Of the 33 arrested, 28 were remanded to judicial custody on November 12, 2025. Subsequent arrests included Aijaz Khan, owner of Kumar Hall, and Tausif Mohammad Sab Sheikh.
The accused reportedly contacted Americans via VoIP, impersonating customer service or law enforcement officials, threatening arrest or legal action unless payments were made. The scam reportedly began in March 2025.
Technical examination of the seized devices revealed that the fraudsters had contacted over 95 American citizens, with evidence indicating international cybercrime involvement. Given the cross-border nature of the case and the interstate locations of the suspects, INTERPOL assistance was deemed necessary.
Belagavi City Police requested the transfer to CID Bengaluru, which was approved by the DG & IGP, Bengaluru, citing the department’s specialized capabilities for a more extensive investigation into the international fraud network. City Police Commissioner Bhushan Borse stated that CID’s involvement will enhance forensic analysis and coordination for this complex cybercrime case.
