KINGSTON, Jamaica — A Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) soldier has been arrested as part of an ongoing investigation into a sophisticated phishing scam that defrauded the National Commercial Bank (NCB) of over $47 million.
The Major Organised Crime and Anti-Corruption Agency (MOCA), in collaboration with the Counter-Terrorism and Organised Crime Branch (CTOC) of the Jamaica Constabulary Force, carried out the arrest this morning. MOCA reports that the soldier is suspected of being part of an organised criminal syndicate.
Between April and June 2022, it is alleged that funds were illegally accessed from multiple accounts at NCB through an online phishing scam. The stolen money was transferred to various beneficiary accounts and later withdrawn or redirected to other banking institutions.
The soldier was apprehended around 10:00 a.m. and taken to his residence in Kingston, which was subsequently searched by authorities. Another address linked to a second suspect, already in custody, was also searched. During these operations, several electronic devices were seized, and charges are expected to be filed soon.
Major Basil Jarrett, Director of Communications at MOCA, emphasized the significance of today’s arrest.
“This morning’s arrest highlights the commitment of MOCA and its law enforcement partners to dismantling organised crime networks and holding accountable those involved in complex financial crimes. It also underscores the importance of collaboration between intelligence, investigative, and technological capabilities in tackling cyber-enabled financial crimes,” he stated.
Major Jarrett also acknowledged the JDF’s cooperation in the investigation, praising the organization’s zero-tolerance approach to illicit activities among its members.
“The JDF has a long history of discipline and integrity and is determined to preserve that reputation. Their support and partnership on this case were invaluable,” he added.
Belinda Williams, Corporate Affairs Lead at NCB, lauded the efforts of the law enforcement agencies.
“These are matters that we at NCB take very seriously, and as such, we take great steps to educate and inform our customers about online safety. This, along with our efforts to report these incidents to law enforcement for investigation and appropriate action, have helped in these arrests today,” she said.
Williams highlighted the growing threat of phishing and smishing scams over the past five years and reiterated the bank’s commitment to safeguarding its customers.
Authorities have assured the public that they remain vigilant in addressing cyber-enabled financial crimes. Investigations into the syndicate continue as law enforcement agencies analyze the seized devices and pursue leads to dismantle the network further.
Charges against the soldier are expected to be laid in the coming days.
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