How a Rajasthan gang used real IDs to ‘sell’ 50,000 fake SIMs

Balotra Superintendent of Police Ramesh said the operation was led by Additional SP Gopal Singh Bhati and Circle Officer Sushil Mann. Ten people have been arrested, and 19 mobile phones and three laptops seized. Constable Mohanlal from the Cyber Cell played a key role in the probe.

“The gang was found issuing SIM cards without the knowledge of real customers. When people visited mobile outlets for a new SIM or porting request, the agents would claim the process had ‘failed,’ but would secretly use the customer’s e-KYC to activate a SIM under their name,” said Ramesh. “The first SIM was given to the customer, while the second was sold on the black market and later used for cybercrime, drug trafficking, and other illegal activities.”

The alleged masterminds have been identified as Sandeep Kumar and Vikram from Balotra, and Lokesh Jajoria from Jaipur. Others arrested include Rahul Gupta (Jaipur), Guddu (Punjab), Mukesh Kumar, Mohangiri, Rakesh, and Narayan.

Investigations found the gang bought mobile phones distributed under the Bhamashah Yojana to activate multiple SIMs and avoid IMEI blocking. Lokesh, the main operator, led a lavish lifestyle and frequently changed phones to evade detection.

Cases have been registered under the IPC, Telecommunications Act, and IT Act. Police said the operation marks a major step in Rajasthan’s fight against cybercrime.