Chandigarh Cracks Down on Crime: SIMs Blocked, Accounts Removed

Chandigarh  In a bold and much-needed crackdown on cyber and organized crime, the Chandigarh administration has deactivated SIM cards of 345 fraudsters and blocked over 1,900 social media accounts linked to gangsters. The move is part of a larger, intensified action plan to curb digital criminal activity and ensure safer communication networks in the city.

This aggressive step has come in the wake of rising concerns over how gangsters and cybercriminals have been using social media and mobile networks to spread fear, coordinate illegal activities, and scam innocent citizens. With cyber fraud and digital threats on the rise across the country, Chandigarh has decided to lead from the front by taking firm, technology-driven action.

The operation was carried out in coordination with multiple law enforcement agencies, including cybercrime units, telecom regulators, and social media platforms. A senior police official stated that the authorities are making use of data analytics and digital intelligence to identify suspects involved in fraud, extortion, and gang-related activities.

In a move to centralize monitoring, an advanced Operations and Monitoring Center has been established. This center will keep a 24/7 watch on cyber activities, identify suspicious behavior patterns, and enable faster coordination between police departments and internet service providers. It is equipped with AI-based surveillance tools that can track the digital footprint of criminals, especially those trying to hide behind fake accounts or unregistered SIM cards.

Chandigarh Police also emphasized that this is just the beginning. Further rounds of investigation and digital clean-up are underway. The administration has also issued warnings to telecom service providers to strictly verify user credentials and immediately report suspicious activity.

Citizens, too, are being encouraged to stay alert and report any cyber fraud or threatening social media content. Dedicated cyber helplines and reporting portals have been made more accessible to ensure faster response.

Officials shared that many of the 1,900 social media accounts belonged to known gang members or were being used to glorify criminal activities. These pages often attempted to build a following by sharing videos of weapons, threats, or lavish lifestyles funded by illegal means. Blocking these accounts not only stops their reach but also sends a clear message that such digital presence will not be tolerated.

The deactivation of 345 SIM cards was based on concrete evidence linking the users to scam activities. Most were involved in phishing, loan fraud, fake customer support scams, and UPI frauds. These numbers could rise as further investigations continue.

Chandigarh’s cybercrime cell has also launched awareness programs in schools, colleges, and local communities to educate the public about staying safe online. Authorities hope that with a combination of strict enforcement and community involvement, the city can set a model for proactive cybercrime management.