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<\/p>\nA police investigation into an online romance scam in which victims in Canada and the U.S. were persuaded to hand over \u201clarge sums of money\u201d has led to charges against a man and woman from Mississauga.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
Investigators allege online dating apps were used to approach victims who lived in various places across Canada and the United States.<\/p>\n
An online alias of \u201cHronek Radko\u201d and an unknown man\u2019s face for a profile picture were used to make contact with and deceive potential victims, according to police.<\/p>\n
The person \u201cpurported to be a successful businessman residing in the Greater Toronto Area and operating a business called Ocean Global Auto Ltd., or Ocean Auto,\u201d police said in a news release on Friday.<\/p>\n
\u201cUpon establishing an online relationship,\u201d the person then \u201cpersuaded victims to loan large sums of money to assist with the alleged business,\u201d police added.<\/p>\n
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Once money was sent, the person then cut off communication with the victims and allegedly used the funds for personal gain, investigators said.<\/p>\n
Toronto Police said the Ministry of Finance aided in the investigation.<\/p>\n
Charles Azi, 36, of Mississauga, is charged with fraud exceeding $5,000 and possession of property obtained by crime exceeding $5,000.<\/p>\n
Patricia Azi, 42, of Mississauga, is charged with possession of property exceeding $5,000.<\/p>\n
Both are scheduled to appear in Toronto court on March 9.<\/p>\n
Anyone with information is asked to call police at 416-808-7300 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-8477.<\/p>\n
Police said their investigation serves as \u201ca timely warning to the public as romance scams consistently increase in the days and weeks leading up to Valentine\u2019s Day.<\/p>\n
\u201cRomance 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.\u201d<\/p>\n
Police say people should be aware of several signs of scams:<\/p>\n
A new online relationship that escalates quickly and discourages in-person meetings.
\nClaims of wealth or business success paired with sudden financial problems.
\nRequests for money tied to shipping fees, investments, customs issues or emergency expenses.
\nInstructions to send funds by bank draft, wire transfer, cryptocurrency or to a business account.
\nPressure, urgency or emotional manipulation such as guilt, secrecy or fear of losing the relationship.<\/p>\n
\u201cRomance scams are not about poor judgment. They are highly organized, deliberate frauds that rely on social engineering and play on emotion,\u201d police said.<\/p>\n
Police also urge the public to:<\/p>\n
Never send money to someone you have not met and verified in person.
\nBe skeptical of any financial request tied to a new online relationship.
\nTalk to a trusted friend or family member before sending money.
\nSlow down and verify if something feels rushed or secretive.<\/p>\n