In Zagreb, Croatia, USKOK filed an indictment against 22 individuals for deceiving others and conducting a fake investigation. These individuals claimed to be police officers investigating bank employees for circulating counterfeit banknotes. However, they obtained illegal financial benefits from 89 elderly people by pretending to be law enforcement officers.
The first defendant managed the group and convinced victims to hand over their money and jewelry. After the investigation, USKOK charged all 22 defendants with crimes of criminal association and fraud. The indictment alleged that the first defendant planned the execution of fraud offenses and involved other defendants in a joint operation. Their goal was to obtain material benefits for themselves by falsely representing themselves as police officers working on behalf of elderly people.
According to the indictment, the defendants called elderly people from call centers and presented themselves as police officers protecting their property. Once they gained their trust, they would visit the victims’ addresses and take their money and gold jewelry. The defendants allegedly obtained property benefits worth €1,045,005.64 from 89 elderly people.
The case highlights the need for greater vigilance among elderly individuals when dealing with strangers claiming to be law enforcement officers or other officials seeking personal information or financial assistance. It is important to verify their identities before sharing any personal or financial information with them.
In conclusion, USKOK filed an indictment against 22 individuals who deceived others by pretending to be police officers conducting a fake investigation in Zagreb, Croatia. The defendants obtained illegal financial benefits from 89 elderly people by convincing them with false stories about protecting their property. This case underscores the importance of being cautious when dealing with strangers who claim to represent official agencies or organizations seeking personal or financial information or assistance.