"Fake sheikhs" who committed fraud in the USA have been arrested.

Two brothers who lived in the U.S. state of Ohio and presented themselves as members of a Middle Eastern royal family have been sentenced to long prison terms for a massive $21 million fraud scheme. The New York Post reported on this.

 

According to the court's verdict, Zubayr Al Zubayr was sentenced to 24 years, and his brother Muzzammil Al Zubayr to 23 years in prison.

 

According to investigation data, the brothers carried out several fraud schemes between 2020 and 2023 by portraying themselves as extremely wealthy and influential individuals. They collaborated with Michael Smedley, the former chief of staff for the mayor's office in East Cleveland, Ohio. Smedley was also sentenced to over 8 years in prison in connection with this case.

 

In court, it was stated that Zubayr presented himself as a person married to an Emirati princess, while Muzzammil, despite having no professional experience, posed as a hedge fund manager.

 

The brothers attempted to gain the trust of those around them through a lavish lifestyle. They used Rolls-Royce cars, private jets, expensive watches, and luxury vehicles. Their collection also included dozens of weapons, including a gold-plated AK-47 style rifle.

 

According to the federal prosecutor's office, the brothers embezzled millions of dollars from several victims through various schemes. Among them, Zubayr's former girlfriend, a UAE citizen, lost $737,000.

 

In one of the largest episodes, they defrauded a Chinese investor of nearly $18 million. The brothers convinced the investor that they owned an industrial complex where they would establish a cryptocurrency business.

 

Investigators noted that the brothers bribed Michael Smedley with expensive gifts, cash, restaurant meals, VIP sports tickets, and other perks. In return, he provided them with official documents, police credentials, and state-level assistance.

 

The jury found all three individuals guilty on charges related to bribery conspiracy, wire fraud, money laundering, and theft of government funds. Zubayr Al Zubayr was additionally charged with willfully failing to file tax returns.