Leviev Detained at Batumi Airport
Simon Leviev, the man whose exploits as the so-called “Tinder Swindler” captivated Netflix viewers in 2022, has been arrested in Georgia, local media reports confirm. Leviev, whose real name is Shimon Yehuda Hayut, was detained immediately after landing at Batumi International Airport, though Georgian authorities have yet to specify the exact reasons for the arrest.
Leviev gained notoriety between 2017 and 2019 for allegedly posing as a wealthy diamond heir on Tinder, targeting women across Europe. Investigations claim he manipulated victims into lending him large sums of money, all while projecting a lifestyle of private jets, luxury hotels, and personal bodyguards.
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A Global Scam Uncovered
The Netflix documentary that bears his nickname showcased a sophisticated pattern of romance scams, detailing how Leviev used charm and staged luxury experiences to win trust—and money—from women in Norway, Finland, Sweden, and beyond. Reports estimate his alleged earnings from these scams reached $10 million over several years.
Leviev served five months of a 15-month sentence in Israel but still faces ongoing legal challenges in Norway, the Netherlands, and the UK. Despite his notoriety, he has maintained a significant social media presence, with over 250,000 Instagram followers.
Social Media Buzz and Public Opinion
The news of Leviev’s arrest has reignited debate online. On X (formerly Twitter), reactions have been mixed:
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“Justice is finally catching up with ‘The Tinder Swindler’. No matter how far you run, you can’t hide forever,” one user posted.
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Another chimed in, “Finally, justice is catching up. Simon Leviev, thinking he could keep running his Tinder scam forever, guess not.”
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Some, however, questioned whether his actions were criminal: “If he was arrested based on what he did in the movie, he did nothing wrong. All the women gave him the money willingly, so he didn’t steal from them.”
The divide reflects broader conversations about online romance scams, consent, and accountability, a topic that has become increasingly relevant in the age of dating apps.
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Leviev’s Counter-Narrative
Just last week, Leviev announced the forthcoming release of his book, “The Story Behind the Man,” claiming it would present his side of the story. On Instagram, he framed the narrative as one of forced fame:
“One day, I woke up – and the whole world thought they knew who I was… But nobody ever stopped to ask me what really happened. For years, I stayed silent. Too long.”
He describes the book as a blueprint of his life, detailing how he allegedly built wealth, navigated challenges, and survived both highs and lows.
What the Arrest Means
Authorities see Leviev’s arrest as a critical step in resolving ongoing international investigations, potentially paving the way for further legal action. For his victims, some of whom continue to seek justice years after being defrauded, this development offers a glimmer of accountability.
Leviev’s saga remains a cautionary tale about online deception, social media fame, and the blurred lines between persona and crime. As legal proceedings unfold, public attention is likely to stay fixed on the man who once captivated—and confounded—the world.
Source: IOL
Featured Image: X{@nypost}
