Opava brothers allegedly defrauded state of 11.5 million CZK through disability scam

Two brothers from Opava, aged 35 and 37, allegedly defrauded the state of 11.5 million CZK by faking severe mental disabilities. For nearly 19 years, the pair collected disability pensions and various social benefits by deceiving doctors and social workers.

The elder brother began the deception in 2007, pretending to suffer from severe mental retardation and an inability to perform basic tasks like using a toilet. He would reportedly refuse to communicate or pretend to be in a deep sleep during inspections. The younger brother joined the scheme in 2010. To reinforce their act, the men used various screams and behaviors to convince officials they required constant care.

Police investigations revealed that the brothers were fully capable of independent living. They were observed moving freely around Opava, shopping in malls, entering into loan agreements with non-bank companies, and signing mobile phone contracts.

In addition to the benefit fraud, the group was involved in thefts and other fraudulent activities. Five individuals, including the two brothers and three members of their caregiving household, now face potential prison sentences ranging from five to eight years.