Police in Gwalior have intensified action against the illegal trade of fake SIM cards under a statewide drive titled “Operation Face Authentication Compliance Enforcement.” The initiative, launched by the police headquarters, aims to identify individuals using multiple SIM cards under suspicious or fraudulent identities, often linked to cybercrime and other illegal activities.
During the crackdown, authorities uncovered a racket operating out of the Jhansi Road police station area, where SIM cards were being sold using the same photograph and identity details for multiple customers. An FIR has been registered against two accused, marking one of the first such cases under this operation in the state. One accused has been arrested, while the alleged mastermind remains absconding.
According to police, the main accused, Umesh Kushwah, a SIM card agent, used to run a roadside stall and provide SIM cards to customers using fake names and forged identity details. His associate, Ashish Nagar, revealed during interrogation that Umesh had a network of clients seeking SIM cards without valid documentation. In exchange, he reportedly charged ₹500 per activated SIM.
Investigations also revealed that identity documents were misused or stolen to obtain multiple SIM cards, which were then sold illegally. Police suspect these SIMs may have been used in cyber fraud and other criminal activities.
Senior Superintendent of Police Dharmveer Singh stated that the operation is ongoing, and efforts are being made to track down the absconding mastermind. Authorities have reiterated their commitment to curbing the misuse of SIM cards and strengthening digital security across the state.