Private jets, deserted shores and an unbuilt resort: alleged links to sanctioned 'scam' empire revealed in Timor-Leste
Source: The Guardian
Private jets, deserted shores and an unbuilt resort: alleged links to sanctioned ‘scam’ empire revealed in Timor-Leste
Exclusive: Investigation finds alleged Prince Group associates were involved in unusual development in tiny nation on Australia’s doorstep, raising concerns about global spread of online fraud industry
Kate Lamb and Ariel Bogle
Mon 6 Apr 2026 16.00 BST
Last modified on Tue 7 Apr 2026 06.46 BST
Guests were enticed with the promise of luxury villas overlooking aquamarine seas; a world-first crypto resort where the tech elite could commune over the latest digital innovation in opulent surrounds.
The promotional material from June last year pitched a sprawling, futuristic development that would hug the coastline of Timor-Leste, one of the world’s poorest countries, and donate a percentage of profits to philanthropy.
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Our investigation has uncovered an alleged connection between three individuals involved with the resort project and the Cambodia-based Prince Group, a multibillion-dollar transnational network accused of money laundering and fraud through elaborate scams reliant on human trafficking, slavery and violence. The AB network is not accused of criminality and the three individuals have since been removed from the project.
Scam centres have flourished in south-east Asia and now represent a massive illicit industry. Experts say scam operators are looking further afield for a vulnerable next target.
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Read more: https://www.theguardian.com/world/ng-interactive/2026/apr/06/prince-group-timor-leste-links-to-alleged-scam-empire