Dominican Republic Cracks Down on Transnational Cybercrime Network

Major Operation Dismantles Extensive Network Involved in Identity Theft, Extortion, and Fraud

The Dominican Republic Office of the Attorney General has launched a major operation to dismantle a transnational cybercrime network believed to have defrauded hundreds of US citizens out of over $200 million. The network, known as “Operation Discovery”, was taken down in dozens of raids across the country, resulting in the arrest of over 70 individuals involved in more than 10 call centers in major cities.

Network’s Modus Operandi

The cybercrime network used sophisticated tactics to target its victims, including identity theft, sexual extortion, and intimidation. Members of the network would make phone calls to intimidate their victims, send drugs using a “delivery” system, and even impersonate FBI agents. The network also relied on cryptocurrencies and the national financial system to move capital and acquire assets worth millions of dollars.

Targeting Vulnerable Individuals

The network’s modus operandi was to target individuals who had prescriptions for highly controlled drugs. After offering these patients medicine without their doctor’s prescription, they would deliver it to their homes and then contact them posing as an FBI agent, demanding payment to avoid prosecution. The network’s members were able to move millions of dollars in assets as a result of their criminal activities.

International Cooperation Key to Success

The operation was carried out in coordination with US authorities, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), who conducted simultaneous raids in New York City. The Dominican Attorney General’s Office emphasized that the cooperation between the two countries was essential to the success of the operation.

Authorities Warn Citizens to be Vigilant

The Attorney General’s Office has warned citizens to be vigilant against identity theft and extortion schemes, particularly those involving the use of cryptocurrencies and the national financial system. The authorities have also cautioned that further arrests are expected as part of the ongoing operation.

Statement from Dominican Attorney General

In a statement, Dominican Attorney General Miriam German Brito praised the cooperation between her office and US authorities, saying that it was “essential” in bringing the network down. She also emphasized that the operation is a major blow to organized crime in the Dominican Republic and sends a strong message to criminals that they will be held accountable for their actions.

Conclusion

The dismantling of this transnational cybercrime network is a significant achievement in the fight against organized crime, and serves as a warning to criminals that they will be brought to justice. The cooperation between law enforcement agencies in the Dominican Republic and the US is a testament to the importance of international collaboration in combating cybercrime.