Cyber thieves take ₹22.10 crore from Tamil Nadu panchayat union accounts

Cyber criminals have stolen ₹22.10 crore from bank accounts that panchayat unions in Tamil Nadu use for government funds, Daily Thanthi reported on 10 November. The early findings of the investigation suggest the attack was run from Nigeria, the report said.

The accounts belong to panchayat unions under the State’s Rural Development Department. The Chennai Cyber Crime police are investigating, and officials of the department are being questioned.

How much was taken

• ₹14 crore from the Tambaram–Mandapam panchayat union
• ₹5 crore from a second panchayat union
• ₹3.10 crore from a third

The report did not say when the money was taken or how the criminals got into the accounts.

The investigation

Investigators are tracing the accounts into which the money was moved and checking whether any of it can be recovered, the report said. The police have not made a public statement, and no arrests have been reported.

Why it matters

Panchayat unions handle money for village roads, water supply, housing and other local works. The stolen money was meant for such public works.

The State government’s response was not available.

What’s next

The Cyber Crime police are expected to trace the money and identify the people behind the theft.