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The city police commissioner CV Anand IPS today launched zonal Cyber Cells in all the zones of the city. Until now, the Commissionerate had only one Cyber Crime Police Station.The Zonal Cyber Cells have been set up due due to the increasing number of cyber crimes.
Hyderabad, May 29 (Najaf ali Shoukat-PMI): In a significant step to strengthen cybercrime prevention and investigation, the Hyderabad City Police has launched Zonal Cyber Cells (ZCCs) across all seven police zones. The initiative is aimed at providing quicker, localized responses to the growing menace of cybercrime in the city.
The move comes against the backdrop of a dramatic rise in cybercrime cases in Hyderabad, which have jumped by 786% over the past nine years. In 2015, only 351 cybercrime cases were registered, whereas by 2024, the number had surged to 3,111.
According to police data, the most notable spike occurred between 2019 and 2020, when cases more than doubled from 1,393 to 2,550, largely attributed to the increased digital activity during the COVID-19 pandemic. The upward trend has continued in recent years, highlighting both the rising threat of cyber offenses and growing public awareness.
Localized Response to Cyber Threats
Each Zonal Cyber Cell will operate under the supervision of the respective Zonal Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP), ensuring accountability and swift handling of complaints. The units will focus on crimes such as online financial fraud, social media harassment, and identity theft.
“The ZCCs are designed to offer faster and more efficient handling of cybercrime cases at the local level,” a senior police official said. “They will play a crucial role in blocking fraudulent transactions, facilitating refunds, and increasing detection rates.”
Staffed and Trained for Cybercrime Challenges
A total of 61 police personnel, including 7 inspectors and 7 sub-inspectors, have been deployed across the seven ZCCs. These officers have undergone specialized training in cybercrime investigation techniques, conducted by the city’s Cyber Crime Police Station (CCPS) and expert faculty from external agencies.
Each unit has been provided with dedicated infrastructure, including computers, laptops, printers, and visitor areas, to ensure smooth operations and victim support services.
Cyber Crime Police Station: A Growing Force
The Cyber Crime Police Station (CCPS), established in 2010, has grown significantly. Initially sanctioned with 40 staff, the station now comprises 147 personnel, including one DCP, one Additional DCP, nine inspectors, and 20 sub-inspectors. This expansion reflects the increasing complexity and volume of cybercrime cases being reported in the city.
Public Participation Encouraged
The police have urged citizens to report cybercrime incidents through the 1930 helpline or by visiting their nearest police station. Complaints registered through the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal (NCRP) will be forwarded to the respective ZCC for further action.
Leadership and Acknowledgements
The initiative has been led by Smt. D. Kavitha, DCP Cyber Crimes, with strategic guidance from Sri Vishwa Prasad, IPS, Additional Commissioner of Police, Crimes. Sri R. G. Siva Maruthi, ACP, CCPS, also played a key role in its implementation.
Officials believe that the launch of Zonal Cyber Cells marks a turning point in Hyderabad’s fight against cybercrime, ensuring faster investigations, stronger victim support, and enhanced digital safety for the city’s residents.(PMI)
