A 19-year-old man has been arrested in Kwun Tong for allegedly impersonating a “special agent” to defraud five retired women of approximately HK$8.2 million. According to the New Territories North Region Criminal Investigation Department, the suspect used fake “Auxiliary Police” credentials and dedicated mobile phones to trick victims into paying “security deposits.”
How the impersonation scam operated
The fraud began when victims received calls from individuals claiming to be Mainland law enforcement officials. These callers alleged the victims were involved in criminal activities and required them to sign “confidentiality agreements” and pay “security deposits” to prove their innocence.
The suspect provided victims with dedicated mobile phones to maintain contact. This tactic helped the scammers convince victims they were communicating with legitimate investigators. The suspects then demanded cash or bank transfers to designated “puppet accounts.”
The scale of the financial losses
The investigation uncovered five separate cases involving a total loss of roughly HK$8.2 million. Senior Inspector Fung Tat-yan of the New Territories North Technology Crime and Wealth Crime Unit stated that one single victim lost HK$3 million.
Police discovered that four of the five victims had not previously reported the incidents to authorities. In some instances, victims were reportedly prepared to pay additional “security deposits” before police intervention. Authorities successfully intercepted approximately HK$360,000 in criminal proceeds during the investigation.
Police intervention and evidence
Following a report on June 22, the New Territories North Region Criminal Investigation Department identified a suspect. He was arrested in Kwun Tong on the afternoon of June 29 for allegedly obtaining property by deception.
During the arrest, police seized a computer, a photocopier, and a work permit bearing the words “Auxiliary Police.” These items are suspected to have been used to produce forged documents and confidentiality agreements. The suspect, charged with conspiracy to defraud, appeared in Fanling Magistrates’ Court today.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much money was lost in total?
The five victims lost approximately HK$8.2 million, with the largest single loss amounting to HK$3 million.
What methods did the scammers use to appear legitimate?
The suspects used fake “Auxiliary Police” IDs, forged confidentiality agreements, and provided victims with dedicated mobile phones to maintain contact.
What should citizens do if they receive suspicious calls from alleged law enforcement?
Police advise citizens not to trust documents or ID cards shown by callers and to contact the anti-fraud hotline at 18222 if they have doubts.
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