A cybercrime investigation that has already led to the arrest of 123 accused has now turned the spotlight inward, with Lucknow police suspending three personnel and sending six others to the police lines after CCTV footage, official records and other evidence allegedly revealed suspicious conduct and deviations from prescribed procedure.
One head constable, two constables were suspended while two SIs and four constables were sent to lines.
As per Lucknow police, the action came during a review of the police response in the case, even as investigators expanded the probe beyond Lucknow and arrested four more alleged associates three from Kolkata and one from Gujarat after initially arresting 119 people during raid on the basis of digital evidence and technical analysis, a release issued by the police on Tuesday read.
The latest arrests indicate that investigators are no longer limiting the probe to those directly linked to the original operation. Police said information obtained from the 119 arrested suspects, along with electronic devices and digital evidence seized during the investigation, helped investigators trace the alleged interstate network and its associates.
The more unusual development, however, was the action against police personnel. During a review of the case, CCTV footage, records and other evidence were examined. In the statement, the police said the review brought to light facts relating to the suspected role of some personnel and deviations from prescribed procedure.
The action, police said, was intended to ensure an impartial investigation and adherence to established procedures and standards in police functioning.
The cybercrime investigation is now being widened to identify the alleged network at every level. Police said the role of other suspects is being examined and further arrests are possible as digital and technical evidence is analysed.
ADCP Crime Kiran Yadav also said anyone found to have directly participated in the cybercrime or to have provided assistance, protection or facilitation to cybercriminals would face legal action if their role is established.
The ADCP further said the priority was to ensure that investigation based on technical evidence reaches every person connected with the crime and that no one involved is allowed to remain outside the ambit of law.
