FBI Arrests Lebanese Fraudster Posing as Emirati Prince

After years of impersonating an Emirati prince and defrauding investors of millions of dirhams, 38-year-old Lebanese national Alex Tannous was apprehended by the FBI in San Antonio, Texas, upon returning for a child custody matter. Tannous, who posed as a UAE businessman and diplomat with close ties to Emirati royalty, faced a federal court appearance, where he could receive a 20-year prison sentence if convicted.

According to the FBI affidavit, Tannous, a skilled con artist, manipulated victims into paying thousands of dollars to entities under his control. His fraudulent activities extended globally, ensnaring victims such as Marc De Spiegelerie from Belgium, who expressed relief at Tannous's arrest, hoping for justice despite losing substantial funds.

Victims like De Spiegelerie and Omar Y Abouhalala from Libya recounted wiring money after being persuaded to invest in Tannous's supposed lucrative projects. Tannous, operating under entities like Equico Enterprises Inc., falsely claimed to be an Emirati official identifying US companies for UAE ventures. Despite promises, joint ventures and economic development fund access failed to materialize.

Court records revealed Tannous's true financial situation, relying on parental allowances and his ex-wife's income. In 2021, he even filed for bankruptcy to avoid repaying defrauded investors. Tannous's arrest brought a sense of vindication to victims, hoping for justice despite their financial losses.