Just before Valentine’s Day, a chilling tale of deception surfaced, culminating in criminal charges against a man and a woman accused of preying on vulnerable hearts.
Toronto Police acted on a January search warrant, meticulously combing through a vehicle in Mississauga and a nearby residence. The search yielded crucial evidence, leading to the arrest of those allegedly behind a sophisticated romance scam.
Investigators believe the pair operated under the false identity of “Hronek Radko,” utilizing a stolen photograph for their online dating profiles. This fabricated persona was carefully crafted to lure victims across Canada and the United States.
The scam revolved around a convincing facade of success. The accused allegedly presented themselves as a prosperous businessman, claiming ownership of companies named Ocean Global Auto Ltd. or Ocean Auto. This carefully constructed image was used to gain trust.
Once an online relationship was established, the alleged fraudsters skillfully persuaded victims to provide substantial loans, purportedly to bolster their automotive business. The requests were designed to appear legitimate and urgent.
The pattern was ruthless and consistent. As soon as the money changed hands, all communication abruptly ceased. The funds, investigators allege, were then diverted for personal enrichment.
Charles Azi, 36, and Patricia Azi, 42, both of Mississauga, now face serious charges. Charles Azi is charged with fraud exceeding $5,000, while both individuals are accused of possessing property obtained through criminal activity, also exceeding $5,000.
This case echoes a disturbing trend, with reports surfacing of devastating financial losses. One Connecticut woman reportedly lost a staggering $1 million, and a separate case involved an elderly victim defrauded of $4,000.
Law enforcement urges extreme caution when navigating the world of online dating. Never, under any circumstances, send money to someone you’ve only met online and haven’t personally verified.
Skepticism is paramount. Be wary of any financial requests that arise within a new online relationship, no matter how compelling the story may seem. A genuine connection doesn’t require financial investment.
Before sending any funds, confide in a trusted friend or family member. An outside perspective can often reveal red flags that might be missed when emotions are running high.
If a situation feels rushed, secretive, or creates a sense of unease, pause and investigate. Slowing down and verifying information is crucial to protecting yourself from becoming a victim.
Anyone with information related to this case, or similar scams, is encouraged to contact the Toronto Police at 416-808-7300. Anonymous tips can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 416-222-TIPS (8477).
