Calgary Police Lay Charges in $1.3M Bank Impersonation Fraud Scheme

Police in Calgary have laid charges against three individuals following an extensive investigation into an organized bank impersonation scam that defrauded residents of approximately $1.3 million.

The investigation, led by the Calgary Police Service Financial Crimes Investigation Unit, uncovered a sophisticated scheme that targeted victims by posing as representatives from their financial institutions.

How the Scam Operated

According to investigators, suspects used technology to impersonate bank officials over the phone, convincing victims that their accounts had been compromised by unauthorized transactions.

Victims were then manipulated into:

• Sharing sensitive banking information, including login credentials and PINs
• Placing their debit or credit cards in envelopes
• Allowing couriers to collect the cards under false pretences

Once obtained, the suspects allegedly used the cards to withdraw cash and purchase high-value items, including gift cards and luxury goods.

Police say many victims were convinced due to the scammers’ access to detailed personal and financial information.

Scope of the Fraud

In 2025 alone, more than 80 cases linked to this scam were reported in Calgary, with total losses estimated at $1.3 million.

Investigators identified at least 15 cases believed to be connected to the same group, occurring between March and August 2025.

Arrests and Seizures

On April 14, 2026, police executed a search warrant at a residence in northwest Calgary, leading to the arrest of two suspects. Authorities seized:

• Over $59,000 in cash
• Multiple debit, credit and identification cards
• A small quantity of illegal drugs

A second search conducted the following day in Edmonton resulted in the arrest of a third suspect.

Suspects and Charges

The accused have been identified as:

• Sirak Habtom, 22, of Ottawa
• Ogyeth Mayum, 22, of Ottawa
• Brian-Shodu Kinyamba, 25, of Edmonton

Each faces multiple charges, including:

• Fraud over $5,000
• Unauthorized use of a credit card
• Money laundering
• Theft over $5,000

Police also confirmed that Mayum was wanted on 10 Canada-wide warrants related to weapons offences in Ontario at the time of his arrest.

Court Appearances

• Habtom is scheduled to appear in court on April 24, 2026
• Kinyamba on May 7, 2026
• Mayum on May 14, 2026

Investigators say additional charges may be laid as the case continues.

Broader Network Suspected

Staff Sgt. Peter Duchnij stated the investigation points to a larger, organized fraud network operating beyond Calgary.

He emphasized that such crimes are complex, often involving multiple jurisdictions, large volumes of digital evidence, and coordinated efforts by offenders exploiting public trust.

Multi-Agency Collaboration

Police acknowledged support from several agencies, including:

• Edmonton Police Service
• Ontario Provincial Police
• Ottawa Police Service
• Peel Regional Police

Public Warning

Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant against similar scams and to never share sensitive banking information or hand over financial cards to unknown individuals.

Courtesy: The City of Calgary Newsroom