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NEWS from the Office of the New York State Comptroller
Contact: Press Office 518-474-4015

State Comptroller DiNapoli Statement on Arrest of Muge Ma for COVID-Related Scam

May 21, 2020

New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli released a statement today after the arrest of Muge Ma following a joint investigation by his office, United States Attorney Geoffrey Berman and the FBI.

“At a time when so many New Yorkers are suffering and sacrificing because of the pandemic, Muge Ma allegedly pretended to work for the government to obtain life-saving medical equipment in order to line his own pocket. Using a public health crisis to commit fraud is reprehensible,” State Comptroller DiNapoli said. “I thank United States Attorney Berman and the FBI for working with my office to hold this scammer accountable.”

Press Release
Chinese National Arrested For $20 Million Scheme To Fraudulently Obtain Loans Intended To Help Small Businesses During COVID-19 Pandemic

Since taking office in 2007, DiNapoli has committed to fighting public corruption and encourages the public to help fight fraud and abuse. New Yorkers can report allegations of fraud involving taxpayer money by calling the toll-free Fraud Hotline at 1-888-672-4555, by filing a complaint online at [email protected], or by mailing a complaint to: Office of the State Comptroller, Division of Investigations, 8th Floor, 110 State St., Albany, NY 12236.