ED Busts Illegal Call Centre Syndicate Targeting US Nationals, Seizes Crypto and Cash in Ahmedabad Raids

The Directorate of Enforcement conducted coordinated search operations at six premises in Ahmedabad under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act in connection with a major cyber fraud and impersonation racket targeting foreign nationals, primarily citizens of the United States.

The probe, initiated on FIRs registered by the Cyberabad Police and the Central Bureau of Investigation, uncovered a network of illegal call centres allegedly run by Mohammed Ansari alias Mohd Irfan Ansari, Akib Ghanchi, Vikas Nimar, Divyang Raval, Pradip Rathod and associates. Investigators found that victims were coerced by impersonating US government officials and private company representatives, forcing payments through gift cards and digital modes.

ED revealed that proceeds were largely laundered through Amazon gift cards and converted into cryptocurrency, including Bitcoin, using online platforms and hawala-style channels. During searches, cryptocurrency worth around USD 12,000 and unaccounted cash of ₹13.5 lakh were seized, along with digital evidence. Authorities also froze 31 bank accounts and a bank locker linked to the accused.

Further investigation is ongoing as the syndicate is suspected to still be operational.