Croatian police warn of gold‑oil investment scam that defrauded victim of over €50,000

Police in Slavonski Brod, Croatia, say a 45‑year‑old man was deceived by individuals posing as brokers of a gold‑and‑oil trading platform. The fraudsters promised high returns and received payments via a cryptocurrency‑style “cryptomata” system. After the victim transferred more than €50,000, the perpetrators blocked access to the funds and demanded additional payments. Investigators have opened a criminal case for fraud and are seeking the suspects. The police urged the public to verify the identity of anyone offering unusually fast or high‑return investments and to report suspicious activity to the authorities.

The warning highlighted typical scam tactics: false representation as financial professionals, pressure for immediate payments, and the use of dubious online links. Citizens were instructed not to share personal or banking details over the phone or internet and to contact police at 192 if they suspect fraud.