Operation Cyber Kavach;Cyber Police arrested one for supplying pre-activated SIM to Cyber Criminals
Manoj Kanta Dash,Odishabarta
Berhamour,(27/02/2026):Berhampur Cyber Police arrested one person for supplying pre‑activated SIM cards to professional Cyber criminals during Operation Cyber Kavach.
The accused, identified as Prasanta Behera, 33, of Pandarasahi in Digapahandi, was apprehended on February 27, 2026.,and the Cyber Crime Police Station registered a Case No. 19 Dt.23.02.2026 U/S: 318(4)/338/340(2)/3(5) of BNS 2023, r/w Sec. 66C/66D of the I.T. Act, 2000, and Sec. 42 of the Telecommunications Act, 2023
Police launched the state-wide operation under the direction of the Odisha DGP to curb cybercrime involving mule bank accounts and pre‑ activated SIM cards. Acting on intelligence from the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C), officers raided a SIM selling point at Badabazar, Berhampur.
Investigators revealed that Behera obtained a SIM card on February 18, 2021, through proper KYC norms but immediately handed it over to cybercriminals. Fraudsters later used the number to lure victims with fake “part‑time job” offers via Telegram and WhatsApp. The scam defrauded victims in Vikarabad, Telangana, of Rs 4,77,433.
Police seized one VIVO mobile handset and five SIM cards from Behera. He was produced before the court the same day.
Authorities emphasised that individuals must never obtain SIM cards in their names to give or sell to others, as they remain legally responsible for any criminal activity linked to those numbers. Officials also warned citizens to remain cautious of fraudulent job offers on messaging platforms and to report suspicious activity immediately.
During investigation it came to know that ,one SIM that was issued to accused Prasanta Behera by the SIM agent observing mandatory KYC norms. However the accused has obtained the SIM 18.02.2021.Later, the accused immediately handed over the active SIM to Cybercriminal .
ADVISORY:
• Protect Your Identity: Never obtain a SIM card in your name to give or sell to another person. You are legally responsible for any criminal activity linked to a SIM registered in your name.
• Beware of “Job” Scams: Be sceptical of part-time job offers received via WhatsApp or Telegram that promise high returns for simple tasks or require initial “investments.”
• Verify POS Agents: Ensure you only deal with authorized and reputed telecom service providers for SIM activation.• Reporting: If you suspect your identity has been misused or you have been defrauded, report it immediately at www.cybercrime.gov.in or call the National Helpline at
