Abdinasir Ahmed Hersi, Governor of the Central Bank of Somaliland, disclosed that a mobile application named AGA defrauded 130 Somaliland citizens of $2,700,000 over seven months.
The scam was orchestrated by a Chinese national who has fled to Kenya. Authorities have arrested one additional Chinese suspect and several Somaliland accomplices.
Speaking at a public-awareness meeting attended by the Financial Crimes Prevention Committee and the Bank’s Sharia Board, Governor Hersi stated the suspect transferred stolen funds using Somali-registered bank accounts and phone numbers
Intensive collaboration Somaliland Foreign Ministry with Kenya and China process underway, with the main suspect’s arrest now at an advanced stage.“Over seven months, $2.7 million was stolen from 130 citizens,” Governor Hersi confirmed.
He warned citizens against entrusting wealth to “lie-down-and-get-rich” schemes, stating anyone involved will face the law.The Governor also cautioned against black-dollar trafficking, declaring it illegal for citizens and foreigners alike. Multiple arrests have already been made.
Online gambling platforms, including 1xBet, were condemned as forbidden by the Qur’an and prohibited by national law. “Do not feed your families with haram money,” he said. Offenders will be prosecuted.
Governor Hersi urged youth to pursue halal livelihoods through honest work and business, emphasizing Somaliland’s abundant legitimate opportunities.