Vehicle sellers duped online as gang stole cars and money via fraudulent schemes
A Sharjah police officer manages traffic. A gang recently targeted vehicle sellers online, defrauding them of cars and money.
Sharjah: In a swift operation completed in under 12 hours, the Criminal Investigation and Intelligence Directorate of Sharjah Police apprehended a gang of Asian nationals accused of running online vehicle scams. The group allegedly targeted vehicle sellers on social media and digital platforms, deceiving them into losing both their cars and money through fraudulent tactics.
How the Scam Operated
Colonel Dr. Khalifa Al Bahai, Director of the Criminal Investigation and Intelligence Directorate, stated that the investigation commenced following a complaint from a victim who had been defrauded.
According to the report, the suspect approached the seller with an appealing offer, examined photos of the vehicle to avoid any face-to-face meeting, and then provided a forged payment receipt, claiming that the transfer would be completed later. Trusting the buyer’s assurances, the victim handed over the vehicle through a recovery transporter, only to later realize that the car had been stolen.
Investigators found that the gang operated with a clear hierarchy. The leader planned and assigned tasks, while members contacted vehicle sellers online, provided fake ID cards, and sent forged transfer receipts to convince victims of the transaction’s legitimacy. Once a vehicle was delivered, the gang destroyed its plates, disposed of it, and cut off all contact.
Record-time arrest and vehicle recovery
After gathering intelligence, tracking the gang’s movements, and implementing a precise field plan, Sharjah Police apprehended the suspects in a record time of less than 12 hours. The operation led to the recovery of the stolen vehicle along with three others seized in similar scams.
Police advice to vehicle sellers
Colonel Al Bahai urged the public to exercise caution when selling or buying vehicles online.
He recommended:
Using accredited platforms and official authorities to transfer ownership.
Avoiding cash deals or undocumented agreements.
Verifying the identity of buyers and sellers before completing transactions.
He stressed that such measures protect the rights of all parties and reduce the risk of falling victim to electronic fraud.
