UAE police arrest two men after phone fraud operation

Police in Abu Dhabi and Ajman join forces to crack down on cold-calling scam

Abu Dhabi Police have arrested two men in connection with a cold-calling scam. Courtesy: Abu Dhabi Police

Two men have been arrested after a joint operation between police in Abu Dhabi and Ajman aimed at bringing cold-calling fraudsters to justice.

The pair are alleged to have cheated victims out of savings and wiped out their bank balances after tricking them into sharing sensitive financial information.

Police did not reveal the exact methods used, but offenders often encourage people to share details by falsely offering cash prizes or posing as representatives of official organisations such as banks.

Police seized a number of mobile phones, Sim cards believed to have been used as part of the criminal enterprise, as well as cash.

Major General Mohammed Suhail Al Rashidi, director of the criminal security sector at Abu Dhabi Police, said the force is committed to stopping opportunistic gangs who target the public.

He thanked Ajman Police for their support in the anti-fraud campaign.

Colonel Rashid Khalaf Al Dhaheri, director of criminal investigations at Abu Dhabi Police, urged residents not to disclose bank account and credit card details, or any other financial information, during unsolicited calls.

He stressed that banks do not ask customers to update such details over the phone.

The senior officer said several reports had been received recently from victims stating fraudsters had said their bank accounts would be frozen if they did not provide information.

Members of the public can report such suspicious calls to the free crime reporting service, Aman, on 800 2626 and their banks.