Sambalpur: The Town Police in Sambalpur have busted an illegal call centre and an online fraud racket operating in the city. A 33-year-old accused have been arrested in this connection.

The accused has been identified as Jitu Mahanand, a resident of Themra village under Sindhekela police limits in Balangir district. 

Modus Operandi

According to Town Police Station IIC Subrata Meher, Mahanand was running an illegal website through which he lured unsuspecting individuals and duped more than 100 people, allegedly swindling crores of rupees.

Police revealed the accused used multiple “mule” bank accounts to route the defrauded money. He reportedly opened these accounts using documents of other individuals, offering them a commission in return. The funds collected through fraudulent means were then used to purchase flats and land at various locations, enabling him to lead a lavish lifestyle.

During the raid, police seized a large quantity of incriminating materials from the accused. These include an Apple MacBook Air, an Acer laptop, an iPhone 13 Pro, a Samsung S25 Ultra, two other Android mobile phones, and several SIM cards.

Additionally, officials recovered a PAN card linked to an entity named “Royal Matrimony LLP,” the accused’s Aadhaar card, nine debit and platinum cards from different banks, two RC smart cards, three cheque books, and cash amounting to ₹40,550. Other seized items include a rubber stamp, two bags, and a costly Tissot wristwatch.

A case has been registered at the Town Police Station (Case No. 385/2025) under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The accused was produced in court today.

Police have stated further investigation is underway to identify other individuals involved in the racket and to uncover the full extent of the fraud network.