Asked for a loan for medical treatment: A man in Kharkiv region was exposed for fraud.

Kharkiv investigators have reported suspicions against a man who defrauded individuals using the scheme "a friend asks for a loan."

This was announced by the communication department of the Main Directorate of the National Police of Ukraine in the Kharkiv region, as reported by "Dumka".

According to the police, law enforcement officers uncovered a crime committed by a 27-year-old local resident who had a prior conviction for drug-related offenses.

The man requested a mobile phone from an acquaintance, claiming it was for temporary use. Once his friend handed over the smartphone, the perpetrator began sending messages in his name to contacts with whom the friend frequently communicated, asking for help to raise funds for "urgent medical treatment."

Within a few hours, the offender received 9,000 UAH in his bank account, which he provided in the messages, from two friends of the smartphone owner. After that, he turned off the phone.

Subsequently, the individuals who believed they were sending money to their friend spoke with him and realized they had been deceived. The victims sought assistance from law enforcement.

The police informed the man of the suspicion under part 1 of Article 190 (fraud) of the Criminal Code of Ukraine. The penalty under this article provides for up to three years of restriction of freedom.