Kazakhstanis transferred money for vacations abroad, hotel bookings, and air tickets, but instead of a long-awaited holiday, they were left without a trip and without money. An investigation into a new scam scheme with tour packages has begun in Aktobe. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Kursiv Media.
According to the Prosecutor's Office of Aktobe Region, the suspect posted advertisements on social networks about organizing foreign tours and offered clients a full package of services — from purchasing tickets to booking accommodation.
However, after payment, the promised tours were never organized. The victims received neither tickets, nor hotels, nor vacations abroad. According to the investigation, the man used the funds for his own purposes.
As a result, the victims suffered significant material damage. The prosecutors did not specify the amount. It is only noted that a pre-trial investigation has been initiated in Aktobe under Part 3 of Article 190 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan — fraud.
The prosecutor's office reminded that when purchasing tourist services via the internet and social networks, it is necessary to carefully check the seller.
"Before transferring money, it is necessary to verify the reliability of the tour operator or travel agency, check the availability of state registration, study reviews, carefully read the terms of the contract, and keep documents confirming payment and correspondence," the supervisory authority said.
Citizens who may have fallen victim to such schemes or have information about similar cases are asked to contact law enforcement agencies.
Earlier, Kursiv reported that Turkey extradited to Kazakhstan a suspect in fraud, the "hacker from Atyrau."