El Oued, Algeria – National Gendarmerie units in El Oued have successfully dismantled a criminal network specializing in online fraud and scams, DZWatch has learned. The operation is part of ongoing efforts to combat cybercrime and protect citizens from online deception.
The criminal ring allegedly lured victims by advertising vehicles and trucks for sale at attractive prices through installment plans on social media platforms. They reportedly deceived individuals by creating fraudulent invoices and forged registration documents, demanding an initial payment via bank transfer before blocking the victims and disconnecting the phone numbers used in the scam.
The investigation was launched following reports received by the National Gendarmerie’s Research and Investigation Department concerning multiple citizens falling victim to scams orchestrated through two separate Facebook pages. Coordinating with judicial authorities, Gendarmerie teams initiated a comprehensive investigation, employing advanced techniques to identify the administrators of the pages.
The operation led to the arrest of six individuals, including one minor. Authorities also identified twelve accomplices. Eight additional suspects remain at large. During the arrests, law enforcement seized mobile phones, a computer, and a tablet believed to have been used in the commission of the crimes.
DZWatch understands that following the completion of all legal procedures, the arrested individuals will be presented before the competent judicial authorities to face charges related to fraud and online scams. The investigation into the remaining suspects is ongoing. This operation underscores the commitment of Algerian law enforcement to tackling cybercrime and protecting the public from online fraud.
