Tarrant County investigation targets alleged $250M scam against older adults

The useful part

Three people have been arrested as part of a months-long international investigation into an alleged organization accused of scamming older adults out of more than $250 million, according to Tarrant County investigators. All three were arrested at major airports while allegedly trying to leave the country, and investigators said more arrests are likely. "I think they'll target anybody that's willing to give them up their money," Tarrant County District Attorney Phil Sorrells said.

How it works

• Muzamil Ahmed has been charged in Tarrant County for his alleged central role in the scheme.
• "This defendant was apprehended at the JFK terminal while he was waiting to board an Air Emirates flight to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
• Instead, he caught a flight back to Tarrant County and he landed in our jail," Sorrells said.
• Sorrells said the arrests are connected to raids at jewelry stores earlier this year, including locations in Richardson, Irving and Frisco.
• We have jewelry places that are smelting down this gold and turning it into bangles so then they can put it and take it overseas," Sorrells said.

What to take from it

Investigators are encouraging victims to overcome any fear or embarrassment and contact authorities before liquidating...

Example or evidence

• "Seniors are losing their security and their peace of mind.

Details worth keeping

"They create fear and urgency, then tell victims to withdraw their savings, buy gold bars or Bitcoin, or keep cash ready for someone to come pick it up who may even pose as a federal agent." Two other people were arrested Thursday and will be extradited to Tarrant County. Their alleged roles were not immediately clear. They have people at call centers that are making the phone calls.