MOI Warns Public After Street Currency Scam Costs Man BD 1,200

A shocking incident raised concerns about street scams in Bahrain. A man reported to the police that BD 1,200 had been stolen from his car, which he said he had parked in a specific location. However, police investigations revealed that the car had not been broken into and that the man had actually fallen victim to a well-planned scam.

Hidd police station head Colonel Dr Osama Bahar from the Ministry of Interior (MOI) explained that the victim had been in contact with a person via WhatsApp, who claimed to be based in a neighboring country and offered foreign currency exchanges at rates higher than the market, including dollars, euros, and other currencies. The scammer arranged a meeting at a specific location and asked the victim to bring the money in an envelope.

When the victim arrived, the scammer, in collusion with an accomplice, snatched the envelope and fled, leaving the man penniless and devastated. Colonel Bahar emphasized that the case carried important lessons: offers to exchange currency above market rates were usually scams, and dealing with strangers in public places was extremely risky. He also noted that the victim initially concealed key details, which delayed the investigation. Full disclosure from the beginning could have led to a faster apprehension of the criminals.

Ultimately, the gang was arrested, and the court sentenced them to prison terms, sending a strong warning to the public, and the court sentenced them to prison terms, sending a strong warning to the public.