Students Arrested For Scamming Elder

India-West News Desk

EL PASO, TX – Two Indian nationals studying at East-West University have been arrested in connection with a scam targeting an elderly resident, according to the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office in Texas.

Mahammadilham Vahora and Hajiali Vahora, both 24, are currently booked into the El Paso County Jail. They face multiple felony charges, including crimes against at-risk individuals (specifically robbery and theft) and money laundering related to illegal investments.

The investigation commenced in October 2024 after an elderly resident contacted the sheriff’s office. The victim reported receiving threatening phone calls from an individual impersonating a government agent. This impersonator allegedly coerced the victim into sending funds through a cryptocurrency ATM and purchasing gold, which was then physically handed over to the suspects.

Utilizing cellphone tower records, investigators were able to trace and subsequently identify Mahammadilham Vahora and Hajiali Vahora as the individuals involved.

“These scams are deeply concerning,” stated Sheriff Joseph Roybal. He stressed the critical need to educate elderly citizens about common fraud tactics. Sheriff Roybal explained that scammers frequently impersonate officials from government agencies, banks, or IT departments to pressure victims into converting cash into cryptocurrency or gold under the guise of ongoing investigations.

Authorities believe there may be additional victims of this scheme across the country and have indicated that the investigation is ongoing.