New Delhi [India], April 20 (HBTV): The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Monday conducted multiple searches across Karnataka against Bengaluru-based alleged cyber hacker Srikrishna Ramesh, also known as Sriki, the sons of sitting Karnataka MLA NA Harris, and other accused persons in connection with an alleged cybercrime and money laundering network.
The searches began early in the morning, covering 12 premises across Karnataka under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
Officials said the ED’s action is part of its ongoing investigation, initiated based on multiple First Information Reports (FIRs) and chargesheets filed by Karnataka Police. The case involves alleged offences such as hacking of national and international websites, theft of bitcoins, extortion, and violations of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act.
The search operation included the residences of Mohammed Haris Nalapad and Omar Farook Nalapad, sons of NA Harris, who is a sitting MLA from the Shantinagar constituency in Bengaluru.
The searches are being carried out by the ED’s Bengaluru unit, which is leading the investigation into what officials describe as a complex network of cyber intrusions and financial transactions aimed at concealing illicit gains.
The ED’s investigation under the PMLA, 2002, revealed that Mohammed Haris Nalapad and Omar Farook Nalapad are close associates of Sriki and are alleged to be key beneficiaries of the proceeds of crime.
The agency has also outlined the suspected modus operandi used by the accused.
According to investigators, the group allegedly hacked into websites and digital wallets to steal virtual digital assets, which were then treated as proceeds of crime. Sensitive data and funds were reportedly siphoned off through similar cyberattacks.
'Once the cryptocurrencies were stolen, they were allegedly routed through various crypto trading platforms to obscure their origin. The proceeds were then transferred through multiple bank accounts in a layering process designed to evade detection by authorities. Finally, the laundered funds were purportedly used for personal expenses and benefits by Srikrishna and his associates,' officials privy to the investigation said.
Officials added that the searches aim to uncover further evidence, including digital records and financial documents, to determine the scale of the operation and the involvement of other individuals. (ANI)