Spata: 6 arrests for telephone fraud – Proceeds amount to over 350,000 euros
A call centre allegedly used by a gang to defraud elderly people has been uncovered in Spata, with the North-East Attica Security Department proceeding to arrest six people.
According to the figures available so far, seven cases of fraud have been identified, with the total haul exceeding 350,000 euros, whilst hundreds of attempted frauds are under investigation.
The ‘call centre’ in Spata
The call centre is reported to have been set up in a short-term rental property in Spata.
According to information reported by ERT, the group’s activities had begun in early summer.
Those involved are said to have used telephone directories to identify potential victims, targeting in particular elderly people with a landline.
Those present included accountants, tax officials and employees of energy companies
During the telephone calls, the perpetrators are alleged to have presented themselves in various capacities in order to convince their victims.
Among other things, they posed as accountants, tax office staff or employees of electricity companies.
It is alleged that this was how they swindled money and jewellery from elderly people.
Seven cases of fraud and around 700 attempted frauds
According to the investigation carried out by the North-East Attica Security Department, seven cases of fraud had been identified by the time the case was made public, with the total proceeds amounting to over 350,000 euros.
At the same time, according to the same sources, around 700 attempts to defraud elderly people have been identified.
During a search of the premises, which were allegedly being used as a call centre, mobile phones, SIM cards and a car were seized.
The six people arrested were brought before the public prosecutor, whilst the judicial investigation into the case is ongoing.
A detailed official statement from the Hellenic Police was expected before the initial findings were made public.
