19/10/2023
19/10/2023
KUWAIT CITY, Oct 19: An Arab expat has been arrested for orchestrating an extensive fraud network involved in the sale of counterfeit tickets through commercial accounts on social media platforms.
The breakthrough came as a result of the dedicated efforts of the Criminal Security Sector, specifically the General Directorate of Criminal Investigation's "Cybercrime Department." Their investigation successfully unraveled the operations of one of the most renowned experts in electronic fraud, particularly targeting individuals in the country.
The perpetrator and his collaborators engaged in fraudulent activities, including the manipulation of mobile phone number contracts, registering them under false names. He then made use of these fake identities to communicate with victims through WhatsApp, operating via counterfeit commercial accounts. Under the guise of selling concert tickets, they would send bank links to individuals, subsequently siphoning off their money.
Extensive search and investigative operations revealed that the mastermind had deceived numerous individuals into facilitating bank transactions on his behalf, in return for a commission. Additionally, he had exploited people with special needs, resorting to blackmail to gain their cooperation, as well as the identities of others, for purchasing these phone lines.
With the relevant legal permissions obtained, a meticulously planned operation led to the suspect's arrest. Upon searching his premises, authorities discovered more than 75 mobile phone lines and five devices utilized for managing counterfeit accounts. It was also revealed that members of the network were wanted in connection with 22 similar cases. Consequently, the accused, his associates, and the seized items are now being referred to the competent authorities for further legal action.