Dubai Police help arrest key suspect in Dh160-million tax fraud

The global operation code-named ‘Operation Pitstop’ involved law enforcement agencies from 15 countries

A key suspect in a €40 million (Dh160 million) tax fraud was arrested with the help of Dubai Police, authorities announced on Thursday.

The male Italian suspect, who is shown wearing a white t-shirt in a photo supplied by Dubai Police, was apprehended at the Dubai International Airport (DXB). He travelled to the UAE from Japan.

The fraudulent companies reportedly engaged in illicit activities through e-commerce platforms and systematically submitted false value-added tax (VAT) declarations of sales amounting to more than €40 million (Dh160 million).

Commander-in-chief Lt Gen Abdullah Khalifa Al Marri commended “the diligence of Dubai Police at various ports of entry”. He also “highlighted Dubai Police’s commitment to working with global law enforcement agencies in tackling complex cross-border crimes.”

The coordinated global operation code-named ‘Operation Pitstop’ involved law enforcement agencies from 15 countries that led to the arrest of several internationally wanted individuals.

“Dubai Police will continue to improve their efficiency by integrating advanced global practices in crime prevention, which is vital to ensuring the safety and security of the community and reinforcing the city’s status as the world’s best destination for living, working, and visiting,” Al Marri added.