Italian police crack down on elderly fraud and large‑scale fuel smuggling

The Carabinieri in Potenza Picena arrested a 33‑year‑old woman from Caserta and a 32‑year‑old man from Naples for aggravated fraud after they deceived an 80‑year‑old resident by posing as police and demanding gold jewelry worth about €7,000. The suspects were detained and placed under investigation.

In a separate operation, the Guardia di Finanza in Mantova seized 27 tonnes of contraband automotive fuel suspected of being smuggled to evade excise taxes. The seizure is part of a broader effort to combat illegal financial activities that undermine state revenues and distort competition.

Both actions are part of Italy’s ongoing enforcement campaign against predatory crimes and illicit fuel trade.