Woman arrested in Riudoms for 96,000 euro 'distressed son' social media scam

The suspect recruited individuals to open bank accounts used to receive funds from deceived victims across Spain.

Generic image of several mobile phones, SIM cards, and banknotes on a table as part of a police investigation.
IA

Generic image of several mobile phones, SIM cards, and banknotes on a table as part of a police investigation.

The National Police have arrested a woman in Riudoms for her alleged involvement in a criminal network that defrauded over 96,000 euros by impersonating family members in urgent need.

The joint operation with the Ertzaintza led to a raid on the suspect's home in Baix Camp on March 10. Officers seized 3,400 euros in cash, mobile devices, and a large number of SIM cards used to carry out the fraudulent activities.
The investigation began in January after several similar scams were reported across Spain. Criminals would send text messages pretending to be the victim's child, claiming an emergency and asking for immediate bank transfers to a supposedly new phone number.
The arrested woman allegedly served as a recruiter for money mules—individuals paid to open bank accounts where the stolen money was deposited. This method was designed to hide the financial trail from law enforcement agencies.
The case is being overseen by a court in Irun. Authorities are currently analyzing the seized material and have not ruled out further arrests or the identification of additional victims as the investigation continues.