Dubai Police Arrest Two Over Dh11.9 Million Phone Scam Targeting Residents

Dubai Police have arrested two suspects allegedly involved in a sophisticated phone fraud scheme that caused financial losses of nearly Dh11.9 million.

The suspects reportedly posed as representatives of official and international organisations and convinced victims that they were linked to fake legal cases overseas.

The investigation was carried out by the Anti-Fraud Centre following multiple reports from residents who had been targeted by the scam.

Victims Threatened With Fake Overseas Criminal Cases

According to investigators, the suspects contacted victims by telephone and falsely claimed that their names were connected to criminal cases or legal files overseas.

The callers allegedly used threats and psychological pressure to convince victims that they could face serious legal consequences.

They instructed victims to transfer money to overseas bank accounts, claiming that the funds were required for verification and would later be returned.

The scam resulted in reported financial losses of Dh11,877,532.

Some Victims Were Persuaded to Sell Gold

The fraudsters reportedly continued demanding money from some victims by claiming that the amounts already transferred were not enough to complete the supposed verification process.

As a result, some victims were allegedly persuaded to sell their gold jewellery and transfer the proceeds to accounts provided by the scammers.

The suspects allegedly went further by instructing victims to book hotel rooms and avoid communicating with family members, friends or other people until they were supposedly cleared of the fake cases.

Police said the tactic was intended to isolate victims and increase psychological pressure and control over them.

Dubai Police Launch Specialised Investigation

Following the complaints, Dubai Police set up a specialised task force within the Anti-Fraud Centre to investigate the cases, trace financial transactions and identify those allegedly behind the operation.

The investigation eventually led authorities to two individuals who were allegedly communicating directly with victims and convincing them to make payments.

Both suspects were arrested and legal proceedings were initiated.

Suspects Allegedly Recruited Through Social Media

During questioning, the suspects allegedly admitted their involvement in the phone fraud operation.

They reportedly told investigators that they had been recruited through social media by an organisation operating outside the UAE.

According to their statements, they received victims' personal information and prepared conversation scripts and instructions through a dedicated application.

The suspects were reportedly paid commissions for successful fraud operations.

Police also analysed mobile phones seized during the arrests and found victims' information, messages and conversations connected to the reported cases.

Dubai Police Warn Residents About Fraud Calls

Dubai Police have urged residents to remain cautious when receiving unexpected calls or messages from people claiming to represent government agencies, banks or other official organisations.

Authorities advised residents not to transfer money, provide banking information or share personal details in response to unsolicited demands.

Residents have also been encouraged to independently verify suspicious communications through official channels rather than acting under pressure or threats.

How to Report Suspected Fraud

Dubai Police have reiterated their commitment to tackling financial fraud and emerging scam methods.

Residents can report suspected fraud through the e-Crime platform or by calling 901.

The latest case highlights how scammers can use fear, fake legal claims and psychological manipulation to convince victims to hand over large sums of money.

Key Details

• Two suspects arrested by Dubai Police

• Fraud losses totalled approximately Dh11.88 million

• Victims were allegedly threatened with fake overseas criminal cases

• Some victims were persuaded to sell gold jewellery

• Suspects allegedly received victims' information through an external network

• Police found relevant victim data and conversations on seized phones

• Residents have been urged to verify suspicious calls through official channels