People in Bahrain are being urged to exchange currency only through authorised and legitimate channels after a man was scammed out of BD1,200 by fraudsters.
Authorities are also advising individuals to provide complete and accurate information when filing complaints to ensure investigations proceed efficiently and swiftly.
Speaking on the Al Aman show on social media, Hidd Police Station head Colonel Dr Osama Bahar reminded people to think twice before choosing to exchange currencies with random individuals.
He recounted the case of a man who decided to do so – and ended up losing his hard-earned money.
“It is unreasonable for someone on the street to offer a currency exchange rate that is better than the official market rate,” said Col Dr Bahar.
“A man who fell victim to a scam later went to the police station and reported that BD1,200 had been stolen from his car.
“He claimed that he had parked his vehicle at a specific location, which he identified, and left the money inside. When he returned, the cash was allegedly missing.”
Police investigated the incident and went to the scene of the alleged theft. After a thorough investigation, it was discovered that the car had not been broken into at all.
While the victim had indeed lost his money, it was due to a scam carried out by two individuals who lured him with what appeared to be an attractive deal on foreign currency.
“One of the perpetrators operated a social media account to mislead people into believing he was offering currency exchange services, including dollars and euros, at rates better than the market,” said Col Dr Bahar.
“The victim contacted him through a WhatsApp number registered in a neighbouring country.
“The scammer arranged a meeting at a location of his choice and instructed the victim to bring the money in an envelope.
“While they were completing the transaction, the scammer, accompanied by an accomplice, snatched the envelope from the victim’s hand and ran away.
“The victim was left devastated and without any money. He lost his savings chasing a non-existent profit and should have exercised greater caution.”
Col Dr Bahar urged people to be completely honest with the police to help resolve such scams quickly.
He explained that withholding crucial information from authorities wastes time and resources, ultimately delaying the arrest of criminals.
“The victim needed assistance, and had he told the truth from the start, the perpetrators would have been caught much sooner,” he said.
“Luckily, the scammers were apprehended and the court sentenced them to jail terms.
“My advice to all citizens and residents is to always be truthful with the police and remain vigilant against anything that appears suspicious.”
nader@gdnmedia.bh
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