Summary
- The Guardia Civil dismantled an organized crime network specialized in scams, extortion, and false bank transfers in Torrevieja.
- The operation “Cricar” lead to the arrest of the alleged mastermind and examination of four others.
- Victims were defrauded of a total of €8,200 through fake payment proofs and periodic money demands under threats.
- The network had well-defined roles including victim recruitment, trust-building, and fund diversion to third-party accounts.
- Authorities advise the public on safe financial practices and how to respond to fraud and extortion attempts.
Guardia Civil Busts Fraud and Extortion Ring in Torrevieja
The Guardia Civil has successfully dismantled a fraudulent criminal network operating in Torrevieja, Alicante, responsible for multiple scams, extortions, unauthorized appropriations, and threats. The operation, named “Cricar,” culminated in the arrest of the presumed ringleader and identified four additional people under investigation.
How the fraud Scheme Worked
The investigation began on December 10, 2024, following a complaint initially linked to a possible unauthorized appropriation. In-depth research by the Torrevieja Investigation Area uncovered a highly organized network with clearly defined roles:
- Victim Recruitment: One individual contacted victims, gaining their trust by simulating financial solvency.
- Fake Payment Confirmation: The network provided false payment proofs, pretending to transfer money which never actually arrived.
- Periodic Money Demands: Using various excuses, the group pressured victims to send money repeatedly to accounts they controlled.
- Threats and Extortion: When victims resisted, threats-including against their families-were issued to force additional payments.
- Fund Diversion: Collected funds were divided or rerouted to third-party accounts linked to the criminal structure.
Arrests and Legal Process
| Name/Status | Age | Role | Legal Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Suspect (Male) | 27 | Alleged mastermind | Arrested and provisionally released |
| Other Suspects (3 Males, 1 Female) | 24-43 (Males), 27 (Female) | Conspirators, with distinct roles in operations | Under investigation |
The main suspect was placed under the jurisdiction of the Torrevieja Court of Instruction No.4, which decreed his provisional release while investigations continue. The four others remain under judicial investigation.
total Economic Damage and Case Numbers
The Guardia Civil clarified 10 separate criminal acts linked to the network, with an economic impact amounting to approximately €8,200. Authorities unveiled the full circuit of how funds were diverted across various accounts tied to the organization.
Guardia CivilS Recommendations to Avoid Falling Victim
To protect yourself from similar scams and fraud,the Guardia Civil offers the following essential advice:
- never send money upfront or under pressure citing ”urgent” reasons.
- Be skeptical of payment receipts or transfer proofs that do not appear as actual credits in your bank account.
- Do not share passwords, one-time codes, or online banking details through phone, messaging apps, or email.
- Always verify with your bank using official channels if you receive unusual communications or payment instructions.
- If you notice unauthorized charges on your cards or accounts,file a report online via the Guardia Civil’s electronic headquarters.
- In case of extortion, threats, or if the perpetrator is known, report immediately to the nearest Guardia Civil office or call 062.
Stay Alert and Stay Safe
This operation highlights the sophistication of modern fraud networks and the importance of vigilance. By understanding such scams and adopting recommended security practices, individuals can better protect their personal finances and prevent becoming victims.
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