Today's Edition
DUBAI (ALETIHAD)
Dubai Police have arrested a fraudulent gang that used social media platforms to promote fake Umrah and Hajj visa services, luring victims with deceptively low prices and easy payment options via bank transfers.
The gang posed as authorised agents, claiming they could swiftly arrange pilgrimage visas to Makkah, encouraging individuals to transfer money to bank accounts under false pretences. Once payments were made, the scammers would block victims’ contact numbers and disappear with the funds.
Warning
Dubai Police stressed the importance of obtaining pilgrimage visas only through licensed and authorised agencies within the UAE.
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Authorities urged the public to exercise caution when encountering advertisements on social media, especially those offering unrealistically cheap rates.
They reiterated their commitment to combating fraud in all forms, particularly schemes that exploit the religious aspirations of the public during sensitive times of the year.
Ongoing Vigilance
Dubai Police confirmed that the gang misled victims by making false promises of quick visa processing, then disappearing once payments were secured.
They called on the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious advertisements or activities through official channels (including e-crime platform www.ecrime.ae), helping to protect the community from exploitation and fraud.
