twenty moves
The Alicante National Police conducted a detailed inquiry into a case of fraud involving more than 7,000 euros. The investigation shows a man accused of manipulating a linked credit card on a mobile device that had been lost by the rightful owner. In addition to the primary suspect, two accomplices described as mules were detained for transferring funds from the victim’s account to the ringleader of the scheme.
The mobile card was reportedly used to withdraw cash at arcades, bars, and even ATMs, among other venues. Authorities indicate the suspect had access to the phone’s password and could operate most applications installed on the device.
twenty moves
Economic Crime Group officers with the Alicante National Police pieced together the sequence of events and recovered the high-end mobile phone used by the fraudster. The investigation notes that the suspect executed more than twenty fraudulent transactions in a single week by exploiting the owner’s card and device, even after the card had been misplaced, facilitating rapid money movement.
Officials report that the scammer did more than use banking apps. With unrestricted access to the terminal, the individual is alleged to have negotiated with a third party to purchase a motorcycle and arrange food delivery using the victim’s account credentials.
The Economic Crime Group of the Alicante Provincial Judicial Police Brigade acted quickly, identifying the perpetrator and recovering the phone within days to return it to the rightful owner.
In a broader operation, the National Police also located and detained two additional individuals linked to the fraud. Descriptions indicate these individuals operated as money mules, collecting cash withdrawals made through instant transfer apps and handing the proceeds to the principal suspect under investigation.
Police Tips
Law enforcement agencies advise citizens to take preventive steps before engaging in any employment opportunity that seems dubious or unfamiliar. Prospective workers should thoroughly verify the legitimacy of a company or recruiter, avoid sharing bank details with unknown parties, and resist offers of easy money. If someone suspects involvement in a money mule scheme, they should halt all transfers immediately, contact their bank or payment provider, and report the situation to the police. These guidelines aim to reduce exposure to fraud in everyday financial activities across North American audiences as well.