The Prevention of Crime Branch (PCB) of Surat Police has busted a racket selling pre-activated SIM cards to unscrupulous businesses, leading to the arrest of three individuals and the seizure of 84 SIM cards. One of the arrested accused is an agent of the Vi mobile company, who was caught along with two associates.
Investigation revealed that the agent, Vijay Rathod, was selling SIM cards without proper identification at inflated prices. Rathod obtained 12 pre-activated SIM cards from a person named Rudra from Sayana, who is now absconding. Ten of these cards were intended for another individual, Vijay Jai, who is also on the run.
Acting on a tip-off, PCB officials led by Inspector R.S. Suvera raided a location near the Adajan Bus Port, successfully apprehending the three suspects. The operation yielded 84 pre-activated SIM cards, four mobile phones, and a total amount of Rs. 45,770.
Preliminary investigations suggest that these pre-activated SIM cards were likely being used by habitual criminals for illegal activities. The practice of issuing two SIM cards in the name of a single customer and then selling them on the black market poses a significant threat to public safety, as these cards can be used for fraudulent activities or even anti-national purposes.
The arrested individuals are currently being held in police custody for further investigation. Efforts are underway to apprehend the two remaining suspects, Rudra and Jai. The PCB urges the public to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity involving the sale or purchase of SIM cards.
