In a significant crackdown on cyber crime, police in Shivpuri district, Madhya Pradesh, have arrested 20 individuals involved in a multi-state sextortion racket. This operation was revealed after victims reported being extorted digitally, with the perpetrators using video calls as a means to blackmail them into paying substantial amounts of money. The police action resulted from extensive investigations that revealed the extent of the racket's operations, targeting individuals across different states through popular dating and chat applications.

The operation, named 'Operation Matrix', was executed following directives from Inspector General Arvind Kumar Saxena and Deputy Inspector General Amit Sanghi. Nine special teams were formed to coordinate the police actions, which included simultaneous raids in various areas of Shivpuri, such as Karera, Bhonti, and Pichor. The police uncovered the gang's organized approach, which involved contacting potential victims through dating apps and subsequently engaging in blackmailing tactics that led to several FIRs being registered against 32 suspects.

While 20 suspects have been apprehended, 12 remain at large, and efforts are underway to locate them. This case underscores the growing concern regarding cyber crimes in India, particularly the increasing sophistication of sextortion practices, which exploit vulnerable individuals through technology and social media. The police believe that ongoing investigations could reveal further links and potentially more victims affected by this illicit operation, highlighting the need for enhanced public awareness regarding online safety.