Ukraine, Kazakhstan dismantle call centre defrauding Kazakh citizens VIDEO

Kazakh and Ukrainian law enforcement agencies have conducted a joint international operation in Odesa, dismantling an organised criminal call centre involved in large-scale online fraud targeting Kazakh citizens.

The operation was carried out by the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Kazakhstan, the National Police of Ukraine, and the Prosecutor General’s Offices of both countries, Caliber.Az reports, citing Kazakh media.

As a result, authorities disrupted the activities of an organised fraud group.

According to Kazakhstan’s Interior Ministry, the criminal network had been engaged in internet fraud targeting Kazakh citizens for an extended period. Preliminary data show that more than 120 people were affected, with total losses exceeding 85 million tenge (approx. $174,427).

“Criminals used social engineering methods. They persuaded citizens to install malicious applications. After gaining remote access to devices, they stole money and personal data,” said Jandos Suyunbay, head of the cybercrime department at Kazakhstan’s Interior Ministry.

Police conducted eight searches during the operation. Authorities seized two luxury vehicles, 26 computers, 49 mobile phones, as well as manuals and scripts used to apply psychological pressure on victims. Investigators also found Kazakh national symbols, which the suspects allegedly used to appear more convincing.

Nine Ukrainian citizens were detained and placed in custody.

By Bakhtiyar Abbasov