Hawks, Interpol nab two online scammers in Pretoria

The suspects were arrested in Wapadrand and Sunnyside on Wednesday morning.

HAWKS Spokesperson Katlego Mogale says a firearm and cash were also seized during the operation.

“The search and seizure operation by the joint team recovered electronic equipment including laptops and phone, thousands of rands in cash as well as an unlicensed firearm.”

The two foreign nationals are alleged to be part of a cult known as the Air Lords.

Air Lords are known rivals of Nigerian organised crime group called the Black Axe movement.

Mogale said the suspects will be charged and extradited by Interpol.

“The suspects will be linked to the online scams that are being investigated by the 419 Provincial Task team. 

“This arrest is but one of several simultaneous happening currently in other countries tracing the suspects involved in online scams such as romance, investments, Bitcoin, employment and all related advance-fee fraud.

“The suspects will appear in court soon on charges of conspiracy to wire fraud, access device fraud, conspiracy to commit fraud and money laundering schemes as it relates to Contravention of Prevention of Organised Crime Act with the one suspect will be charged with possession of unlicensed firearm and ammunition.”

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