UAE: AED23,000 in electricity bills for villas, alerts authorities to headquarters of organized crime gangs – News

Investigations sparked by questionable bills expose money laundering and e-fraud

Huge electricity bills at two residential villas in Fujairah reminded authorities of the high number of people living in the area.

The higher-than-usual amount on the bill sparked an investigation into the villas, which were initially rented out to just two people. Investigations revealed that an organized crime gang was conducting electronic fraud and money laundering at the villa, resulting in a hefty bill of Dh23,000, Arab news outlet Emarat Al Youm reported.

The group creates fake websites and takes money from victims, claiming to be able to return huge profits to victims. During the raid on the villa, authorities seized multiple computers and phones and retrieved criminal evidence.

The Fujairah Federal Court ruled that the 10 Asian defendants were sentenced to five years in prison and fined Dh5 million. Commercial establishments that sponsored their residences and provided them with villas and vehicles were also fined Dh5 million.

In an ongoing effort to protect residents, UAE authorities have repeatedly issued warnings against deceptive social media ads that lure individuals with false promises of easy money and quick profits. Police departments across the UAE have launched multiple campaigns on various social media platforms aimed at alerting the public to fraudulent websites, questionable social media links and misleading online advertisements that lure victims with attractive offers and high payouts By.

Scammers also pose as government agency officials to deceive the public. Abu Dhabi Police has warned UAE residents of an increase in fraudulent calls and fake websites. Fraudsters use deceptive text messages impersonating government agencies and officials to trick or lure individuals.

UAE prosecutors also urged social media users to be vigilant and avoid dealing with unauthorized parties. These entities use deceptive methods and promote themselves through social media.