Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso – Authorities in Burkina Faso have apprehended two individuals linked to a cyber fraud operation that amassed over 9 million CFA francs, officials reported on Monday. The suspects were allegedly involved in a sophisticated scam that exploited social networks to defraud victims by selling nonexistent goods.

According to Burkina Information Agency, Deputy Head of the Technical and Scientific Police Cell at the research section of the Third Gendarmerie Legion, the criminals utilized stolen Burkinabè national identity cards and SIM cards from local mobile phone companies to conduct their operations. They engaged with sellers on social media, agreeing on prices for items such as televisions, air conditioners, and motorcycles. After reaching an agreement, the suspects would provide a fraudulent bank payment slip to the sellers, convincing them that the payment had been made.

The operation was detailed by Bado, who explained that the fraudulent payment confirmation would be sent via WhatsApp at times when it was difficult for the victims to verify the transaction. Subsequently, the group employed unsuspecting tricycle drivers to collect and transport the falsely purchased goods to a predetermined location.

The loot, presented to the media, included six televisions, eight air conditioners, and five motorcycle-scooters, collectively valued at 9,165,000 CFA francs. The revelation came as the authorities are preparing to bring the last two involved in the operation to trial at the Ouaga I High Court.

Local victim Léandre Bado praised the rapid response of the gendarmerie, which led to the swift apprehension of the suspects. In response to the ongoing threat of cybercrime, officials have urged the public to cooperate with law enforcement by reporting any suspicious activities to the national monitoring and alert center.