Agartala (Tripura) June 28: Tripura Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha today underscored the escalating challenges faced by security forces, which are now tasked with combating both traditional terrorism and the pervasive threat of cybercrime.
The Chief Minister made these remarks during the inauguration of the state-level Cyber Crime Police Station in Arundhutinagar, on the outskirts of Agartala.
Dr. Saha, who also holds the Home Ministry portfolio, emphasized the sophisticated nature of modern criminal activities, noting how digital platforms have become potent tools for fraudsters.
“Today’s mobile network systems can pose a greater danger than even an AK-series rifle,” he stated, highlighting the ability of cybercriminals to inflict substantial financial and personal damage without physical presence.
He urged citizens to exercise extreme caution while engaging with electronic platforms, stressing the “invisible reach of digital crime.”
The Chief Minister cautioned the public about the stealthy operations of cybercriminals, who meticulously target unsuspecting individuals to pilfer finances and sensitive personal data.
He acknowledged the dual nature of advancements like Artificial Intelligence (AI), remarking, “While Artificial Intelligence (AI) has many advantages, it also comes with risks. It can be misused by scammers to harm unsuspecting victims.”
He reiterated the critical need for public vigilance to avoid falling prey to these evolving threats.
Aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of continuous reform and innovation, Dr. Saha stressed the importance of regular, advanced training for police and law enforcement personnel.
This, he noted, is crucial for staying ahead of increasingly sophisticated criminal methodologies.During the event, Director General of Police (DGP) Anurag provided insights into the successes of Tripura’s cybercrime units.
He revealed that these units have successfully thwarted attempts to siphon off a significant sum of Rs. 5.46 crore from legitimate bank accounts, redirecting it towards cybercriminals.
Of this amount, Rs. 32.50 lakh has already been meticulously returned to the affected customers through established legal procedures, with ongoing efforts to recover additional funds.DGP Anurag also drew attention to a disturbing trend: the frequent targeting of young girls and women by fraudsters who exploit personal images and videos for blackmail.
He issued a strong appeal to all citizens to report any cybercrime incidents promptly to the police or relevant cybercrime authorities, stressing that any delay in reporting can severely impede timely intervention and resolution.
The inauguration of the new Cyber Crime Police Station marks a pivotal development in Tripura’s strategic efforts to fortify its defenses against digital threats and enhance the protection of its citizens in an increasingly interconnected global landscape.
