HEFLIN, Ala. — A coordinated investigation by the Cleburne County Sheriff’s Office and the 7th Judicial Major Crimes Unit led to the arrest of a Georgia man accused of running a gold-related financial fraud scheme targeting local residents.
Daniyal Makki, 18, of Alpharetta, Georgia, was arrested on October 22 in the Borden Springs area without incident. He is charged with attempted theft by deception in the first degree, according to the sheriff’s office.
Investigators said the case began after a victim was misled by a fake computer security alert that prompted them to call a scammer posing as a fraud prevention representative. The suspect allegedly convinced the victim that their financial accounts had been compromised and instructed them to withdraw large sums of money and purchase gold to safeguard their assets.
Authorities said Makki then attempted to collect the gold and cash under false pretenses, claiming he would keep them safe from hackers. Deputies intervened before the exchange could occur.
Sheriff Jon Daniel warned residents about the increasing sophistication of such scams, which often prey on the elderly and other vulnerable individuals.
“Legitimate agencies — including law enforcement, government offices, and banks — will never ask you to withdraw money, buy gold, or hand over valuables to fix a supposed security issue,” Daniel said.
The sheriff’s office urged the public to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activity that may involve fraudulent schemes.
Anyone who believes they have been targeted by similar scams should contact the Cleburne County Sheriff’s Office at 256-463-2277.
