Argentina arrests man for posing as neurosurgeon to defraud patients

Authorities in Buenos Aires have arrested Pablo Emanuel Thomas Llanes, a man who allegedly posed as a neurosurgeon on social media under the pseudonym "doctor Lucas Miciones." Llanes is accused of operating a fraud network targeting vulnerable families by promising experimental treatments and cures for complex pathologies in exchange for large sums of money.

The investigation was triggered after a victim attempted to arrange a contrast MRI for a relative with a bone tumor. Llanes falsely claimed to be the Head of Neurosurgery at Hospital Fernández and requested a transfer of 110,000 pesos to cover alleged missing medical supplies. Upon visiting the hospital, the family discovered the appointment was fake and that no such doctor worked there.

Llanes was apprehended at a hotel in the Almagro neighborhood after being recognized by other guests. An accomplice, Hernán Exequiel Almeida, was previously detained for allegedly providing his bank account to receive the fraudulent transfers. Llanes faces charges of fraud.