Abu Dhabi Police announced on Thursday, November 12, the arrest of the main suspect in a fraud case involving a jewellery store and goods worth about AED 14 million. The man is accused of posing as a representative of several prominent UAE business figures and dignitaries to obtain a large quantity of gold and jewellery without paying for the items.

According to Al Emarat Al Youm, the store owner said in his complaint that about six months earlier, a man claiming to represent several prominent business figures and dignitaries in the UAE had obtained gold and jewellery from the store against invoices, promising to pay at a later date. However, he failed to meet his financial obligations.

Suspect identified and arrested within hours

After receiving the complaint, Abu Dhabi Police immediately launched an investigation and formed a specialist team from the Criminal Investigations Department to gather information, examine evidence and analyse links between the available documents.

Using smart systems, advanced technology and data analysis, the team identified the suspect and his hiding place within hours and tracked his movements.

Police investigations found that the main suspect had enlisted the help of others to collect the gold and jewellery and was hiding in an annex of a residential property in Abu Dhabi.

After locating the hideout, specialist police teams raided and searched the premises, arresting the suspect.

During the operation, officers recovered boxes containing gold items, along with invoices and documents linked to the case.

According to Abu Dhabi Police, the suspect said during initial questioning that he had sold the remaining gold and jewellery.

Abu Dhabi Police said the swift identification and arrest of the suspect demonstrated its officers’ readiness and ability to use smart technologies, data analysis and information matching to advance criminal investigations.

The force also stressed that advanced technologies help speed up the handling of reports, identify suspects and protect the property of citizens and residents.

Abu Dhabi Police warn jewellers and business owners

Following the case, Abu Dhabi Police urged jewellery store owners and other businesses to carefully verify customers’ identities and the legal validity of any claim that they represent individuals or companies before completing transactions.

Business owners were also advised not to hand over gold, jewellery or other valuable goods until payment had been received through reliable and verified financial channels.

Police warned that relying on promises of future payment or deferred-payment invoices without confirming receipt of funds could create opportunities for financial abuse and fraud.

The force also urged business owners to immediately report any suspicious behaviour or unusual transactions to police.