Italian police thwart supermarket theft in Alessandria as fake finance scams surge in Como

In Alessandria, an off‑duty police officer in civilian clothing intervened at a local supermarket after two young women from Eastern Europe attempted to steal an elderly shopper's purse. The officer’s quick action prevented the theft and the suspects were detained; witnesses noted similar attempts in recent weeks.

The Guardia di Finanza in the province of Como has issued a warning about a rise in impersonation scams. Fraudsters call victims, posing as finance officers or other officials, and lure them to police stations or request valuables and cash to be handed over to supposed agents. Reports to the emergency number 117 have increased, prompting authorities to advise citizens not to open doors to strangers, to verify any official request with proper identification, and to contact 112 or 117 if in doubt.