SP arrests gang defrauding vehicle sellers with fake receipts

Details of the incident

Colonel Dr Khalifa Al Belhay, Director of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), explained that a report had been received from an individual who stated that he had been defrauded and his vehicle stolen after listing it for sale on an online platform.

The suspect had contacted the victim and made an attractive offer. To avoid meeting in person, the suspect asked to inspect the car via photos, after which he sent the victim a forged payment receipt through a social media application, falsely claiming that the agreed amount had been transferred and would soon appear in the victim’s account due to banking procedures.

In good faith, the victim handed over the car through a recovery truck, only to discover later that he had fallen prey to a fraud and theft.

Investigation and arrest

A specialised CID team was immediately formed to track down the suspects. Investigations revealed that the gang was led by one individual who devised the plans and distributed tasks among the members.

They specifically targeted vehicle sellers online, contacting them and sending copies of ID cards under other people’s names along with forged transfer receipts to convince them of their seriousness. After agreeing on the sale, they would instruct the victim to send the car to a designated location.

To enhance credibility, the suspects would assure the seller that the ownership transfer would not occur until after payment was confirmed. They would then seize the vehicle, remove its number plates, dispose of it immediately, and cut off all communication.

Swift action and recovery

After gathering sufficient evidence, identifying the suspects’ locations, and monitoring their movements, a well-coordinated field plan was executed. Within just 12 hours, the gang was apprehended, and the stolen vehicle was recovered along with three other cars taken in similar fraudulent operations.

Police warning and public advisory

Colonel Al Belhay emphasised the importance of exercising caution and refraining from engaging in sales or purchase transactions conducted outside official channels, as such dealings may carry legal and fraudulent risks.

He urged the public to use approved platforms and refer to competent authorities when selling or transferring vehicle ownership, as these official channels safeguard all parties’ rights and provide a verified record of transactions.

He also called on community members to verify the identity of buyers and sellers, and to avoid cash dealings or unverified agreements, as these can increase the risk of falling victim to electronic fraud.