Romanian Authorities Nab Suspects in Large-Scale Online Housing Fraud Scheme
A joint cybercrime investigation between Romanian and Dutch authorities, supported by Eurojust, has led to the arrest of two suspects allegedly involved in a massive online fraud scheme targeting the housing market in the Netherlands since 2015.
The Scheme
The duo allegedly posted fake advertisements for apartments on online platforms, convincing hundreds of victims to pay one or two months’ rent without first viewing the properties. The suspects remained anonymous by communicating through messenger systems, while payments were diverted to bank accounts in various countries to conceal and launder the illicit proceeds.
Evidence Seized
Two houses were searched, yielding telephones, computer devices, and a substantial amount of cash seized as evidence.
Extradition Proceedings
In addition to the arrests, European Arrest Warrants have been submitted by Dutch authorities for the suspects’ extradition to face prosecution in the Netherlands.
Collaborative Efforts
The Romanian prosecution service, DIICOT, and police from Râmnicu Vâlcea collaborated with their Dutch counterparts through a joint investigation team (JIT) facilitated by Eurojust. The EU Agency for Criminal Justice Cooperation provided financial support, coordinated meetings, and strategic advice to aid the investigation.
Key Points
- The suspects were arrested in Romania as part of a joint cybercrime investigation between Romanian and Dutch authorities.
- The alleged fraud scheme targeted the housing market in the Netherlands since 2015.
- Hundreds of victims were convinced to pay one or two months’ rent without viewing the properties.
- Payments were diverted to bank accounts in various countries to conceal and launder the illicit proceeds.
- Two houses were searched, yielding telephones, computer devices, and a substantial amount of cash seized as evidence.
- European Arrest Warrants have been submitted for the suspects’ extradition to face prosecution in the Netherlands.