Conman arrested for posing as woman online

Police have arrested a conman who posed as a woman online to dupe his victims into sending him money and expensive presents.

Officers said the man spent two years using a series of fake SnapChat accounts to target more than 50 unsuspecting young men.

His profile usually claimed he was a high earner, held a senior job at a prestigious firm, and was well thought of by his local community.

Using five fake identities he was able to con his victims into transferring him cash or sending luxurious gifts.

“He ran five accounts and conned more than 50 young men,” said Brig Jamal Salem Al Jallaf, of Dubai Police.

“His crime was discovered when a woman came across one of the accounts he was running and saw her picture.”

On Sunday, detectives said the man had admitted to the fraud and had been referred to public prosecutors.

Police urged all members of the public to report any incidents of online fraud or extortion without delay.