Dubai Police played a crucial role in the apprehension of a male Italian suspect involved in a €40 million (Dh160 million) tax fraud scheme. The suspect was taken into custody at Dubai International Airport (DXB) after arriving in the UAE from Japan, Khaleej Times reported.
The Italian individual, captured in a photo provided by Dubai Police wearing a white t-shirt, is believed to be a prominent figure in an organized crime syndicate that orchestrated an extensive tax fraud scheme. This scheme operated through companies located in Spain, Romania, and Estonia, but its main operations were centered in Italy.
The fraudulent companies allegedly engaged in illicit activities via e-commerce platforms and systematically submitted false value-added tax (VAT) declarations, amounting to over €40 million (Dh160 million). This arrest comes as a significant breakthrough in a case that has spanned multiple countries.
Dubai Police’s role in apprehending the suspect was praised by Commander-in-chief Lt Gen Abdullah Khalifa Al Marri, who emphasized the force’s commitment to collaborating with global law enforcement agencies to combat complex cross-border crimes. The coordinated international operation, known as ‘Operation Pitstop,’ involved law enforcement agencies from 15 different countries and resulted in the arrest of several internationally wanted individuals.
Lt Gen Abdullah Khalifa Al Marri further stated, “Dubai Police will continue to improve their efficiency by integrating advanced global practices in crime prevention, which is vital to ensuring the safety and security of the community and reinforcing the city’s status as the world’s best destination for living, working, and visiting.”