UPDATE: A self-proclaimed feng shui master and her accomplice have been arrested in Sydney as police dismantle a shocking $70 million fraud and money laundering operation. The arrests occurred on November 12, 2024, at a residence in Dover Heights, following an extensive investigation into how vulnerable clients were exploited through false prophecies.
Authorities allege that the 53-year-old fortune teller preyed on her clients, particularly within the Vietnamese community, convincing them to secure financial loans with promises of a “billionaire in their future.” This deceptive scheme not only manipulated individuals but also extended its reach into larger financial crimes, according to police reports.
Detectives from the NSW Crime Commission seized a trove of assets during the operation, including a 40-gram gold bar valued at $10,000, $6,600 in casino chips, along with various luxury items and electronics. The evidence collected underscores the sophistication of this criminal syndicate.
Darren Bennett, Executive Director of the NSW Crime Commission, emphasized the importance of asset recovery, stating, “Our role is to ensure that crime does not pay. Every dollar we recover is a dollar that won’t fund further criminal activity.” This statement reflects the commission’s commitment to restoring justice for the victims caught in this web of deceit.
The investigation, known as Strike Force Myddleton, began in January 2024, initially focusing on fraudulent practices targeting Sydney’s automotive financing sector. However, it rapidly expanded as detectives uncovered instances of stolen personal information being used to apply for loans for nonexistent luxury vehicles, dubbed “ghost cars.”
Commander Gordon Arbinja of the Financial Crimes Squad highlighted the evolution of the investigation, stating, “What began as an investigation into fraudulent car financing has expanded into uncovering one of the most sophisticated financial crime syndicates I have seen in my career.” The strike force has charged 17 individuals and seized assets worth $60 million before linking the case to the fortune teller’s operations.
Both women, now facing multiple charges, were brought to Surry Hills Police Station on November 12. The elder suspect was charged with 39 offences, including directing a criminal group and 19 counts of obtaining financial advantage by deception, and has been denied bail. She is set to appear in Downing Centre Local Court on November 13. The younger accomplice faces seven charges and has been granted conditional bail, with a court date set for January 23.
As investigators continue to unravel the depths of this complex fraud scheme, authorities urge anyone with information regarding organized crime to contact Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000 or through their website, ensuring all tips remain confidential. The public’s assistance is crucial in bringing additional perpetrators to justice and safeguarding the community against such manipulative scams.
