A Nigerian influencer-hacker called Raymond Abbas – who went by the alias Hushpuppi – who posted photos of his lavish life on private jets has been arrested for cyber-fraud worth £350m.
The FBI seized more than £30 million in cash when they raided the Dubai apartment of 38-year-old Raymond Abbas while he was sleeping.
Investigators say the influencer was presenting a billionaire lifestyle to "lure victims from around the world.".
Twelve other people were arrested for their alleged involvement in the fraud.
It is believed that investigators found the emails of two million victims on various phones and computers seized during the operation.
During the raid, luxury cars as well as suitcases full of cash.
"The suspects targeted victims abroad by creating fake websites for well-known companies and banks in an attempt to steal credit card and then launder the stolen money," said Jamal al-Jalaf, of CID Police Dubai.
Mr Abbas – who went by the name Hushpuppi – is also accused of committing fraud in Europe, America and Nigeria, police said.
The raid came two months after investigations into the gang began . Detectives used social media to track down the people involved in the scam.
Mr. Abbas started out as a second-hand clothes dealer in Lagos before claiming to be a billionaire property developer in Dubai.
He mentioned in his post that he shows the luxurious life he leads to inspire other people not to give up on dreams .
"I post some of these things so someone can see my page someday and not give up on their goals," he once told his 2.4 million Instagram fans.
A video was released by Dubai police showing the influencer being arrested.
Local media reports that the FBI will push to extradite Mr. Abbas to America, as many of the alleged victims were US citizens.
“Hushpuppi” has yet to comment on the allegations.
According to exclusive information from SecNews, the hacker in question was also found in Greece (specifically in Santorini and other Greek islands) while his victims include Greek companies. Our team's reporting continues and we will keep you informed of any new developments.
