Pune: The independent cyber police station under the Pimpri-Chinchwad Police Commissionerate has officially begun operations after receiving government approval.

On Saturday (October 12) night, the first case of cyber fraud was registered, marking a significant milestone for the newly formed station. This police station is part of the city's efforts to tackle the rising number of cybercrimes more effectively.

The new cyber police station has been staffed with officers, including one police inspector, two assistant inspectors, three sub-inspectors, and 45 constables, to handle the high volume of cybercrime complaints that the Commissionerate receives—an average of 60 to 70 complaints daily.

The station will now be able to directly register and investigate crimes, streamlining the process for victims of cyber fraud.

The first case registered involves a 59-year-old resident of Sangvi who was defrauded of ₹60.3 lakhs. The complainant was added to a share trading group where promises of high returns (25-30%) were made through a trading platform. The victim was then manipulated into transferring money to various bank accounts under the pretense of investing in shares.

Deputy Commissioner of Police, Crime Branch, Sandeep Doiphode said, "With the independent cyber police station now operational, we can quickly register cases and conduct in-depth investigations, improving the service for complainants."

Previously, the Cyber Cell only accepted complaints in the form of applications, which were forwarded to other police stations for case registration and investigation, leading to delays. Now, the cyber police station has the authority to investigate cases directly, providing faster relief to victims.