Scam Alert: 500 Million Pounds Moved through Fake Woman Profile!
A major breakthrough has been made in the fight against fraud, as 12 suspects have been arrested in connection with a criminal organization that used a fake female profile on social media to deceive victims. The investigation, which began on October 6, 2023, in the Akyazı district, uncovered a sophisticated scheme in which the suspects posed as a conciliator and requested money from their victims under false pretenses.
The suspects would contact their victims multiple times, claiming that the woman they had met on social media was underage, and provided fake reconciliation documents and hospital reports to extort money from them. In total, the victims handed over 310,670 pounds to these criminals before realizing they were being scammed.
After identifying 8 suspects initially, authorities conducted a thorough investigation into the criminal organization. Financial data analysis and coordination with MASAK led to the discovery of the suspects’ criminal activities, including their communication records, accommodation details, and bank transactions. Shockingly, it was revealed that the suspects had defrauded victims of over 500 million pounds in the last two years.
Following further investigation, a total of 22 suspects were found to be involved in the organized crime ring, with 9 members already serving time in prison for “qualified fraud.” A joint effort by the Akyazı Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office and Provincial Gendarmerie Command teams resulted in the successful arrest of 11 suspects across various provinces in Turkey.
During the operation, authorities seized 13 mobile phones, flash memory, computers, an unlicensed pistol, and a stolen motorcycle used in the fraudulent activities. The ringleader of the organization, known as “Pablo,” remains at large, with efforts underway to locate and apprehend him.
This significant crackdown on fraudsters highlights the commitment of law enforcement agencies to protect the public from online scams. The successful arrests and ongoing investigations send a strong message to those engaging in fraudulent activities that their actions will not go unpunished.
