Sharjah Police bust global cybercrime network, secure AED65 billion in assets

Sharjah: Sharjah Police General Command announced on Thursday (15/10/2026) details of a cross-border criminal case that led to the securing of company assets valued at approximately AED65 billion and the arrest of 33 suspects of 12 nationalities, including leaders of one of the largest international organised criminal networks involved in cybercrime and other cross-border offences. The investigation began with a young individual who attracted attention for his ability to read stock movements and his knowledge of money management. He was placed under surveillance, and subsequent monitoring and investigations uncovered links to four networks whose members played overlapping roles within a single criminal operation. During a media briefing held by Sharjah Police General Command, Lieutenant General Abdullah Mubarak bin Amer, Commander-in-Chief of Sharjah Police, said the operation went beyond arresting those involved and stopping their criminal activities. It also helped protect interests and assets while reducing potential economic, security and financial repercussions. He said the Digital Crimes Department at Sharjah Police General Command dismantled the networks and their affiliated groups, which had exploited encrypted platforms to conceal their illegal activities. Lieutenant General Bin Amer said the outcome was the result of integrated institutional work, sustained security efforts and close cooperation and coordination with federal, local and international authorities. He said the Sharjah Government's continued efforts to empower the police and develop its security capabilities, together with the support and follow-up of His Highness Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, had helped establish a security system capable of keeping pace with evolving challenges and strengthening the safety and stability of society. He also praised the pivotal role of the Public Prosecution in the Emirate of Sharjah and its efforts to support the emirate's security system. He said institutional integration and continued coordination between prosecution, security and police authorities help uphold the rule of law, promote justice, protect the rights of individuals and society, and strengthen joint efforts to combat crime. Lieutenant General Bin Amer said protecting society and maintaining security would remain a firm priority for Sharjah Police General Command. He stressed that anyone attempting to exploit technology or digital platforms to commit crimes or threaten the security of individuals and the stability of society would face a vigilant security system equipped with advanced capabilities, experience and expertise. He added that Sharjah Police would continue to track down offenders, arrest them and bring them to justice to protect society and uphold the rule of law.