Dubai Police arrest fraudsters for swindling Dhs11.8 million through phone scams

The Anti-Fraud Centre at the Dubai Police, has arrested two individuals involved in a series of telephone fraud schemes. These suspects impersonated officials from government and international organisations, targeting local residents and causing financial losses amounting to more than Dhs11.8 million. The investigation uncovered that these criminals' method involved calling victims and fraudulently claiming that their names were linked to files or legal cases abroad. They intimidated the victims with the threat of legal actions and coaxed them into transferring money to accounts outside the country, pretending this was part of a money verification process and assuring the victims of its return after completion.

Investigations uncovered that the suspects coerced some victims into selling their gold jewelry and transferring the profits, asserting that earlier transfers were inadequate for completing the supposed verification procedures. They also directed victims to book hotel accommodations and isolate themselves from others until they received assurances that they were not involved in the fictitious cases. This strategy was designed to exert control over the victims and extend the duration of the scam.

After receiving these reports, the Dubai Police entrusted a specialized Anti-Fraud Center task force to scrutinize the data and track the movement of funds. The investigation pinpointed two individuals who were responsible for contacting and deceiving the victims; both were arrested, and legal proceedings commenced against them. During interrogation, the suspects admitted to orchestrating the telephone fraud. They revealed having connected via social media with an overseas entity that instructed them to contact victims for a fee for each successful scam. They received victim details and guidance on communication methods through a specific application. The examination of confiscated phones uncovered victim information and conversations related to the reported fraud cases, reinforcing the gathered evidence. The total financial loss experienced by the victims reached Dhs11,877,532.

Dubai Police underscored the need for community members to be vigilant against suspicious calls and messages from those posing as government officials, especially those seeking money transfers or requesting banking or personal information. They advised people not to give in to threats or psychological tactics and to always confirm the source of the communication through authorized official channels.

Dubai Police also reiterated their dedication to fighting various forms of fraud, keeping an eye on new criminal techniques, and pursuing offenders. They encouraged the community to report any fraud attempts via official channels such as the "eCrime" platform or the 901 call center, thereby enhancing community security and safeguarding individuals and their property.