Barahona police arrest nine in prize-related fraud scheme

The National Police in Barahona have arrested nine individuals in connection with a fraudulent scheme involving promises of cash prizes and household appliances. The operation took place near a commercial plaza on the Sánchez highway following reports that individuals were approaching customers at a local establishment to invite them to participate in a rigged game.

The suspects, who hold various nationalities including Honduran, Peruvian, Chilean, and Dominican, are under investigation. During the intervention, the Criminal Intelligence Department (Dintel) seized 512,375 pesos in cash, nine mobile phones, three televisions, two blenders, a toaster, and other related items.

According to preliminary reports, victims were led to make financial investments with the expectation of winning prizes, but instead lost their money. Some participants reported losing their sense of time while involved in the activities. Authorities are continuing their investigation to determine the full scope of the operation and identify any additional victims.