One man has been arrested and a Canada-wide warrant has been issued for 4 others who are believed to be connected to a large international criminal organization involved in the long-term running of online romance scams.
RCMP say this organization was found to be responsible for defrauding 7 women of a combined total of over $2-million through these scams over the past 2 years.
In January of 2018, an individual told the Saskatchewan RCMP that his name was being used without his permission and knowledge in a transaction online.
The Federal Serious and Organized Crime Unit identified 5 people who were living in Regina at the time the crimes were being committed who are suspected to be involved.
On Wednesday, 28 year old Austin Newton was arrested and is facing 3 fraud-related charges and a charge of possession of the proceeds of crime over $5-thousand.
Police are looking for 4 men who could be anywhere in Canada – 24 year old Kelvin Awani, 25 year old Joshua Ometie, and two 27 year olds, Clinton Newton and Jonah Eigbuluese.
You can also click on this link to the Saskatchewan RCMP Facebook page for more information on how these scams unfolded and how to keep yourself safe from this type of crime.