Crypto scam probe by Telangana Cyber Security Bureau exposes cyber slavery racket with Chinese links

Hyderabad: In a disturbing revelation, the Telangana Cyber Security Bureau (TGCSB) has uncovered how cyber slavery rackets are not only exploiting job seekers in India but also using cryptocurrency to funnel commissions to Indian middlemen from Chinese nationals operating abroad.

The investigation stems from the recent arrest of Mohammed Azeem, a Hyderabad-based travel agent, who was identified as a key figure in trafficking individuals to Cambodia under the false promise of computer operator jobs.

Victims were sent on tourist visas, which were later converted into work permits upon arrival.

According to TGCSB officials, Azeem closely coordinated with a Chinese national, referred to as ‘Tank,’ and other accused individuals — Hussain Bhai alias Jason Bhai, Sandeep, and Prashant — all currently believed to be residing in Cambodia. Apart from Tank, the rest are Indian nationals working in tandem with Azeem to lure unemployed youth through social media platforms.

“Azeem booked multiple flight tickets for victims on the instructions of his Chinese handler. He maintained continuous communication through WhatsApp groups and received large commissions in cryptocurrency. The funds were credited to crypto wallets, including Binance, and later converted to Indian rupees,” TGCSB officials stated before an additional sessions judge while opposing Azeem’s bail plea.

The victims, once abroad, were handed over to Chinese operatives who confined them and forced them into cybercrime operations — a form of modern-day slavery now dubbed ‘cyber slavery.’ These operations spanned across Cambodia, Myanmar, and Laos.

The bureau also revealed that the Chinese handlers funded the entire logistics — including flights and hotel bookings — with crypto payments made directly to Azeem and his associates.

Azeem, however, denied the allegations, claiming he merely acted in his capacity as a travel agent.

The court recently rejected his bail, citing the seriousness of the charges and the growing evidence of his deeper involvement.

The victims, once abroad, were handed over to Chinese operatives who confined them and forced them into cybercrime operations — a form of modern-day slavery