In Kokshetau, seven local residents fell victim to fraud, losing a total of more than 20 million tenge. Police are conducting a pre-trial investigation into the incident, reports infohub.kz.
According to the Ministry of Internal Affairs' portal, the fraudster offered his acquaintances assistance in moving up the queue for state or rental housing. He demanded monetary compensation for his services. The first complaint from a victim was filed in June with the Kokshetau city police department. Subsequently, other citizens filed similar complaints. The total damage to the seven victims exceeded 20 million tenge.
Police reported: "Currently, the suspect has been detained and is in custody. All circumstances and details of the crimes committed are being established as part of the pre-trial investigation."
Law enforcement officials urge citizens not to trust dubious promises to resolve issues for a fee. Fraudsters use various pretexts to take people's money, including promising help with obtaining housing, employment, document processing, and other services.
The Ministry of Internal Affairs added: "If you are offered to 'speed up' the receipt of a government service for money or to resolve an issue outside the established procedure, do not transfer money and be sure to verify the accuracy of such information by contacting the relevant government agency."