Dubai Police Arrest 879 People & Seize 5.9 Million Cards In Illegal Massage Center Scam

As people living in or visiting Dubai, we have all noticed the little massage cards scattered all over the pavements or on the hood of cars. Well, these cards are bad news!

Dubai Police have arrested 879 people involved in either the operation or promotion of unlicensed massage centers in the past 18 months. The force’s continuing campaign has targeted the establishments that typically draw customers through business cards placed on cars.

The Dubai Police said that 879 people have been arrested since the start of 2021. This includes 309 people caught distributing massage cards and 588 people breaching public decency.

Police said 5.9 million cards advertising the service were seized during the 18 months, which resulted in the disconnection of 919 phone numbers.

How The Centers Operate

Such centers are a front for illegal and criminal activities, according to Brigadier Abdullah Khadem Suroor Al Maasem, director of the Bur Dubai Police Station and chairman of the Board of Directors of Police Stations.

“Unlicensed massage centres deceive victims through fake social media accounts. Once the victim arrives, they find themselves surrounded by a group of people who drag them to an apartment and tie them up to take indecent pictures (which are later used) for blackmail,” the officer said.

Raising Awareness

Meanwhile, the Dubai Police General Command also warned the public against seeking services from unlicensed massage centers, which pose serious threats to whoever seeks their services, including falling victim to extortionists.

The Bur Dubai Police Station director explained that this year, they distributed 600 awareness brochures to real estate companies and have sent (SMS) messages. He noted that their awareness campaign has benefited 8007 companies and reached 53,816 of their employees.

How To Report Illegal Activities

Brig. Al Maasem stressed that ensuring public safety is a shared responsibility between the Dubai Police and community members.

“Dial 901 or use ‘Police Eye’ service via the Dubai Police app to report any suspicious, shady and illegal activities, including these unlicensed centers and their promotors,” he urged.

So please take care, stay vigilant and always try to help the Dubai police in any way you can!