3 arrested over MVR 32,000 online scam

Police have arrested three men in connection with an alleged online scam involving MVR 32,000, in which money was obtained through fraudulent communications on WhatsApp.

The Maldives Police Service said the case was reported on 13 October after a complaint alleging that money had been obtained through deception using the messaging platform.

Police identified the three suspects as Hussain Saamir, 40, of H. Velasfaruge, Malé; Mohamed Reehaan, 33, registered under Dhaftharu number RS 6007; and Ahmed Sujaau, 46, of Jojed Villa, Malé.

All three suspects were presented before a court to determine their remand periods.

The court ordered Saamir and Sujaau to be detained for 15 days each, while Reehaan was remanded in custody for seven days.

Police have not disclosed further details about how the alleged scam was carried out.

Following the arrests, police urged the public to take precautions against online fraud.

The authorities advised people not to open unfamiliar links received online or share one-time passwords (OTPs) with others.

Police also urged individuals to verify the identity and legitimacy of people or businesses before conducting online transactions or transferring money.

Members of the public were further advised against sharing personal information or banking details with others.

Police encouraged anyone who encounters suspected fraudulent activity to report it immediately through the police service hotline on 3322111 or to the police Anti-Scam Centre.