Police have arrested four men in connection with a banking scam that transferred USD 21,000 and MVR 63,000 from a victim’s account using a fraudulently obtained one-time password.
According to the Maldives Police Service, an unidentified caller contacted the victim last Wednesday and obtained an OTP, which was used to gain unauthorised access to the victim’s online banking portal. The perpetrators then transferred the funds, bringing the total stolen to more than USD 25,085.
The four suspects are Ibrahim Shareef, 34, of Golden Gate, Gn. Fuvahmulah; Jinah Ahmed, 29, of Matharesmaage, F. Feeali; Ibrahim Muaz, 38, of Nazumu, F. Nilandhoo; and Ali Daain, 21, of Lily Night, L. Gan.
Three of the suspects were arrested on Wednesday and the fourth the following day. All four were ordered remanded for 15 days as investigations continue.
Police have repeatedly urged the public not to share OTPs or click on suspicious links, and to verify the identity of anyone requesting banking details.
