Toronto police have apprehended two individuals for allegedly defrauding victims through dating apps, resulting in significant financial losses.
The arrests were made following an investigation that led to a search warrant being executed at a residence in Mississauga on January 21.
According to authorities, the suspects utilized various online dating platforms to target individuals residing in both Canada and the United States. The alleged perpetrator adopted the fake identity of “Hronek Radko” and used another person’s image as their profile picture.
Law enforcement further claims that the accused misrepresented themselves as a “successful businessman” residing in the Greater Toronto Area, operating under the names Ocean Global Auto Ltd. or Ocean Auto.
By cultivating online relationships, the suspects reportedly convinced victims to provide substantial monetary loans to support their purported business endeavors. Once the funds were transferred, communication was abruptly terminated, and the money was allegedly misappropriated for personal use.
One of the arrested individuals is Charles Azi, a 36-year-old resident of Mississauga, who is facing charges of fraud exceeding $5000 and possession of unlawfully acquired property exceeding $5000.
Additionally, Patricia Azi, 42, also from Mississauga, has been charged with possession of property exceeding $5000.
The accused parties are scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice.