Fake Judge, Real Jail: Dubai Court Hands Five Years for Dh3.15m WhatsApp Scam

A Dubai criminal court has sentenced a 41-year-old African man to five years in prison after convicting him of impersonating a judicial official, issuing threats and defrauding a woman of more than Dh3.15 million through online platforms.

 

Along with the prison term, the court ordered the accused to repay Dh3,154,731, confiscate the electronic device used to commit the crime, erase all related digital data and deport him after he completes his sentence.

 

Court records show the case began when the man contacted the victim through a social media platform advertising marriage proposals. Using a false identity, he claimed to be a UAE national working in an offshore role and promised to marry her — assertions later found to be entirely fabricated.

 

After gaining her trust, the accused escalated the deception by communicating with the woman via WhatsApp, where he falsely claimed to be a judge. Prosecutors said he sent threatening messages warning that she would be arrested and face legal action unless she transferred money to a bank account he specified.

 

Fearing the consequences of the alleged legal threats, the woman complied. Over time, she transferred substantial sums, ultimately losing more than Dh3.15 million, according to the prosecution.

 

Investigators said the man deliberately relied on impersonation and intimidation to pressure the victim into making repeated payments. Digital evidence, including WhatsApp messages and bank transfer records, showed a consistent pattern of deception throughout the scheme.

 

During the trial, prosecutors argued that impersonation, threats and online fraud were interconnected offences committed for a single criminal purpose. The court agreed, ruling that the acts should be treated as one offence under UAE law, with sentencing based on the most serious charge.

 

Judges said the evidence presented — including electronic communications, financial records and investigative findings — conclusively established the defendant’s guilt.

 

The ruling underscores the severe penalties for misusing online platforms to commit fraud or impersonate officials. Authorities have repeatedly urged the public to ignore payment demands or threats made through messaging apps and to verify the identity of anyone claiming official authority.

 

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