A Leuven investigating judge has detained three men, aged 18, 19, and 21, following a failed attempt to defraud an 85-year-old man in Waanrode. The suspects from Limburg were arrested after the victim alerted police to a fraudulent call from a fake bank employee.
Did You Know? Police discovered multiple bank cards and card readers inside the suspects’ vehicle during the arrests in Diest.
Fraud attempt in Kortenaken
On Tuesday, Oct. 20, a man posing as a bank employee contacted an 85-year-old resident of Waanrode, Kortenaken.
The victim did not believe the story and contacted a relative, who then notified the police. Officers arrived on the scene immediately and waited for the suspects in the victim’s street.
Arrests in Waanrode and Diest
Police arrested one minor near the victim’s home. Later that day, three adult suspects were apprehended in Diest. The suspects include a 19-year-old from Genk, a 21-year-old from Zonhoven, and an 18-year-old from Diepenbeek.
The suspects face charges of attempted fraud and membership in a criminal organization. The minor’s case has been transferred to the Limburg prosecutor’s office.
Court extends detention as police investigate further crimes
Two suspects were presented to the court and detained on Thursday, Oct. 22. A third suspect was placed under electronic surveillance. On Tuesday, Oct. 27, the council chamber confirmed and extended their detention for at least one month.
The Hageland police zone is currently investigating whether the three men are linked to other similar crimes. The Leuven prosecutor’s office stated that the victim suffered no financial loss due to his alertness and the quick police intervention.
The prosecutor’s office warned that bank employees, CardStop staff, or police officers will never come to a home to collect a bank card.
What items were found and where suspects originate from?
What specific items were found in the suspects’ car?
Police found several objects in the vehicle, specifically bank cards and card readers.
Where do the adult suspects originate from?
The suspects are from Limburg, specifically from Genk, Zonhoven, and Diepenbeek.
How long will the suspects remain in custody?
The council chamber extended their detention for at least one month, with one suspect remaining under electronic surveillance.
Could increased awareness of “bank card collection” scams prevent similar attempts in other regions?
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