Regional police investigate cybercrime, fraud, and juvenile violence

Several criminal investigations involving fraud and violence are underway across the region.

In Slovenia, Maribor police have concluded an eight-month investigation into an incident in Rače. Four juveniles have been charged with robbery, violence, vehicle theft, and misuse of payment instruments after they allegedly lured a 56-year-old man into a trap using a fake social media profile. The group reportedly attacked the man, stole his money and bank card, and took his car. Other children under the age of 14 were also involved but are not criminally liable.

In Montenegro, police in Podgorica raided a house in the Marezi area, seizing hundreds of digital devices, sophisticated equipment, and a large amount of cash. More than 50 foreign nationals, primarily from Ukraine but also including citizens of Moldova and Slovakia, are being questioned. Authorities suspect the group may be involved in online fraud and have formed a specialized task force to investigate cybercrime and money laundering.

In Croatia, police in Križevci are investigating a loan scam that defrauded a 45-year-old woman of several thousand euros. Additionally, in Krk, a 77-year-old woman lost 7,000 euros to a cryptocurrency scam involving a fake AI-based trading platform. Authorities are issuing warnings regarding internet-based financial offers that promise quick profits.