A police investigation into an online romance scam in which victims in Canada and the U.S. were persuaded to hand over “large sums of money” has led to charges against a man and woman from Mississauga.

Toronto Police said a search warrant executed on a home and vehicle on Jan. 21 in Mississauga led officers to the seizure of evidence and two arrests.

Investigators allege online dating apps were used to approach victims who lived in various places across Canada and the United States.

An online alias of “Hronek Radko” and an unknown man’s face for a profile picture were used to make contact with and deceive potential victims, according to police.

The person “purported to be a successful businessman residing in the Greater Toronto Area and operating a business called Ocean Global Auto Ltd., or Ocean Auto,” police said in a news release on Friday.

“Upon establishing an online relationship,” the person then “persuaded victims to loan large sums of money to assist with the alleged business,” police added.

Once money was sent, the person then cut off communication with the victims and allegedly used the funds for personal gain, investigators said.

Toronto Police said the Ministry of Finance aided in the investigation.

Charles Azi, 36, of Mississauga, is charged with fraud exceeding $5,000 and possession of property obtained by crime exceeding $5,000.

Patricia Azi, 42, of Mississauga, is charged with possession of property exceeding $5,000.

Both are scheduled to appear in Toronto court on March 9.

Anyone with information is asked to call police at 416-808-7300 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-8477.

Police said their investigation serves as “a timely warning to the public as romance scams consistently increase in the days and weeks leading up to Valentine’s Day.

“Romance scammers exploit trust, emotion and the desire for connection. They often present themselves as successful, credible professionals and invest significant time building relationships online before requesting money.”

Police say people should be aware of several signs of scams:

A new online relationship that escalates quickly and discourages in-person meetings.
Claims of wealth or business success paired with sudden financial problems.
Requests for money tied to shipping fees, investments, customs issues or emergency expenses.
Instructions to send funds by bank draft, wire transfer, cryptocurrency or to a business account.
Pressure, urgency or emotional manipulation such as guilt, secrecy or fear of losing the relationship.

“Romance scams are not about poor judgment. They are highly organized, deliberate frauds that rely on social engineering and play on emotion,” police said.

Police also urge the public to:

Never send money to someone you have not met and verified in person.
Be skeptical of any financial request tied to a new online relationship.
Talk to a trusted friend or family member before sending money.
Slow down and verify if something feels rushed or secretive.


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