Madrid, December 12 – The Civil Guard has arrested a 31-year-old man for allegedly scamming 41 individuals by advertising fraudulent hunting trips on social media. The suspect reportedly charged around 150 euros per person for these non-existent events.
Investigation Initiated by Victim Reports
According to information released on Friday by the Civil Guard Command in Madrid, the arrest was carried out by officers in Cerceda. This action followed numerous reports from various victims who had seen advertisements for hunting trips on social media, purportedly taking place on an estate located between Moralzarzal and Collado Villalba.
The advertisements promised a “quality hunting experience in a unique environment,” featuring wild boars, fallow deer, and deer available for hunting on a “very well-maintained” terrain. Some of these enticing offers even included catering services, with prices reaching up to 175 euros per person.
Modus Operandi: Social Media and Bank Transfers
Victims who responded to the advertisements would contact a provided phone number. Subsequently, they were given a bank account number where they were instructed to deposit approximately 150 euros to secure their participation in the supposed hunting trip. The Civil Guard meticulously tracked the advertisements and financial transactions reported by the victims, which ultimately led to the identification and arrest of the 31-year-old perpetrator.
Further Victims Not Ruled Out
While 41 victims have been identified so far, authorities have not ruled out the possibility of more individuals coming forward as the investigation continues. The scam highlights the growing prevalence of fraudulent schemes perpetrated through online platforms, urging users to exercise caution when encountering attractive offers that require upfront payments.
This incident adds to a series of recent fraud cases in the Madrid region, including a separate operation where a gang was apprehended for defrauding vulnerable individuals by manipulating ATMs in various municipalities. These events underscore the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat financial crime and protect citizens from exploitation.
The Civil Guard urges anyone who believes they may have been a victim of similar scams to come forward and report the incident to the authorities. Public cooperation is crucial in dismantling these criminal networks and preventing further losses.
Source: https://www.telemadrid.es/noticias/madrid/Detenido-por-estafar-a-41-personas-con-falsas-monterias-en-la-sierra-de-Madrid-0-2842815700–20251212113806.html
