The Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office has arrested two people in connection with a sophisticated PayPal scam that bilked a Vandever resident out of large sums of money.
Upon learning the victim planned to withdraw $70,000 in cash to fulfill another demand from the scammers, the Sheriff’s Office provided the victim with a decoy package to deliver. When the suspects took the bait, officers immediately moved in and apprehended them.
Hongqi Cui and Li Muxi, both of California, were charged with Theft of Property, Evading Arrest, and Resisting Arrest. Both suspects are currently incarcerated in the Cumberland County Jail under a $305,000 bond.
A search of the suspect vehicle uncovered an envelope bearing the name of another potential victim, along with $16,000 in U.S. currency concealed in a hidden trunk compartment. Investigators believe this money may belong to another scam victim.
This case remains under active investigation. If you or someone you know has been contacted by a scammer or feels pressured to send money, please contact the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office or your local law enforcement agency immediately. (Photo Li Muxi and Hongqi Cui, courtesy CCSO.)
