Trapani: Catania man arrested for defrauding an elderly woman, using the “fake Carabiniere” technique to get 10.000 euros

The military personnel of the Carabinieri Companies of Trapani and Catania Fontanarossa have arrested a 34-year-old from Catania who, using the “fake Carabiniere” technique, allegedly carried out a scam to the detriment of a 77-year-old woman from Trapani.

The man, using the tried and tested technique of an initial telephone contact in which, identifying himself as a self-styled “Carabiniere”, he informed of a (fake) road accident caused by his daughter, showed up at the victim's home and demanded €10.000 for the alleged legal costs.

The woman, after handing over the cash, realized she had been scammed and immediately informed the Carabinieri of Trapani who, thanks to the video surveillance footage of the area, were able to identify the car used, thus tracing the identity of the 34-year-old.

Thanks to the operational synergy with the Catania Carabinieri Command, a vast device was organized that allowed the car to be traced at the Gerbini (CT) motorway exit and, following a personal and vehicle search, the money that the elderly woman had given him shortly before in Trapani was found.

Following the validation hearing, the 34-year-old was subjected to the precautionary measure of house arrest.

Regarding the sad phenomenon of "scams against the elderly", the Carabinieri are constantly engaged not only in counteraction, but also in prevention, organizing meetings at schools, parishes and community centers. During these meetings, people are informed of the ways in which scams are perpetrated and are reminded that no member of the police force asks for money or jewelry and that in any case, in case of doubt, it is always advisable to contact the emergency number 112 so that the Carabinieri, widespread throughout the territory, can intervene quickly and effectively.