Manipur Police Crack Down on Illegal Mobile Sim Card Racket, Seize 117 Pre-Activated Devices

Imphal: Manipur Police Arrest 32-Year-Old with 117 Pre-Activated SIM Cards, Crackdown on Telecom Fraud Continues

In a significant operation, Manipur Police arrested a 32-year-old man, identified as Wahengbam Ajit Meetei, also known as Apa, for allegedly possessing 117 pre-activated SIM cards. The arrest, made on Saturday in the Imphal West district, underscores the police’s commitment to curbing illegal activities involving mobile networks.

The suspect was apprehended during an investigation into the unlawful distribution of pre-activated SIM cards, which are often sold for illicit purposes, including extortion. Authorities are now probing the operation to uncover its full extent and any links to organized criminal networks. The seizure of these SIM cards poses a significant security threat as they bypass the strict identity verification measures mandated by India’s Department of Telecommunications.

This comes as part of India’s intensified crackdown on telecom fraud and strengthened SIM verification protocols introduced in 2024. The country has been taking measures to prevent the misuse of mobile networks, including the deactivation of over 781,000 fraudulent SIM cards as part of a nationwide effort to combat cybercrime.

The issue of pre-activated SIM cards has also been reported in other states, including a high-profile bust in Kolkata where police seized over 2,000 fake SIM cards. The Manipur case is part of a broader effort to prevent the misuse of mobile networks and ensure the security and integrity of India’s telecom infrastructure.

While the investigations are ongoing, authorities have yet to reveal further details about the intended use of the SIM cards or connections to broader criminal activities. However, the arrest and seizure of these pre-activated SIM cards serve as a reminder of the importance of safeguarding India’s communications network and preventing fraud and extortion.

India’s recent telecom reforms, including the “Know Your Customer” (KYC) regulations, aim to prevent anonymous usage that could facilitate criminal activities. Under these regulations, users are required to provide biometric data and official documentation for SIM activation. The police’s efforts to curb pre-activated SIM cards demonstrate their commitment to upholding these regulations and ensuring public safety.

In summary, the arrest of the 32-year-old suspect with 117 pre-activated SIM cards is a significant step in India’s crackdown on telecom fraud. As the police continue to investigate the incident, it is clear that the issue of pre-activated SIM cards is a pressing concern that requires urgent attention.

Original Source: https://nenews.in/manipur/manipur-police-arrest-man-with-117-pre-activated-sim-cards/22600/
Category : Manipur,arrest,Manipur Police,Pre-activated SIM cards,Telecom fraud
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Publish Date: 2025-03-30 15:18:00