KARACHI: The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Corporate Crime Circle has dismantled a sophisticated fraud network operating from FB Area, Karachi, that swindled international companies out of millions of dollars. Four individuals have been arrested for their alleged involvement in a large-scale scam, posing as suppliers of seafood and chicken products.
The arrested suspects, identified as Arif, Saleem, Shariq, and Naveed, operated under the guise of fake entities, “Sogomet” and “Silver Hybrid,” to lure foreign businesses through deceptive online advertisements on Facebook.
These sham companies showcased products that never materialized, resulting in substantial financial losses for their victims.
The FIA investigation revealed that the accused defrauded businesses in several countries, including China, Thailand, Singapore, Hong Kong, Germany, and Kazakhstan.
The gang managed to accumulate approximately $136,000 USD along with millions of Pakistani Rupees from their illicit activities. Notable victims include Messrs. Chan Pak Shan, who were defrauded of $100,000 USD and 223,000 Chinese Yuan; the German firm, Robert Wiese, which lost $36,450 USD; and Sri Lankan company Zam Zam, which was defrauded of $19,000 USD, and millions of Pakistani rupees.
The FIA spokesperson stated that a case has been registered against the four suspects, and further investigation is ongoing.
The agency aims to uncover the full extent of the network and identify any other individuals who might be involved. This bust underscores FIA’s commitment to curbing cyber fraud and international economic crimes.
The agency continues to emphasize the importance of due diligence when engaging with international suppliers and encourages foreign businesses to be vigilant against such fraudulent schemes.
