Ioannina police dismantle two criminal fraud networks

Police in Ioannina have dismantled two separate criminal organizations specializing in telephone fraud targeting elderly citizens. The operation resulted in the arrest of three individuals—two men and one woman—and the identification of a fourth member.

The first group utilized various deceptive tactics, posing as relatives of victims involved in accidents or as hospital doctors requesting urgent funds for surgeries. In some instances, they would call victims back pretending to be cybercrime police officers, instructing them to leave money and valuables at specific locations as bait to catch the original scammers.

The second organization operated by posing as accountants. They convinced victims to collect cash and valuables from their homes under the guise of conducting asset audits to avoid tax penalties. Members acting as collectors would then visit the homes to seize the loot.

During the investigation, authorities intercepted a woman attempting to collect 5,000 euros and 10,000 euros worth of gold from an elderly victim. She was found in possession of 1,895 euros and two mobile phones, and her vehicle was seized. Additionally, two men were apprehended after attempting to flee from police following a reported scam involving 3,500 euros and jewelry.