Share and Follow
A man suspected of being involved in a Romanian gang that targeted elderly women with scams has appeared in a Sydney court following his extradition from Western Australia.
The scam allegedly involved a gang member approaching an elderly victim, claiming they had dropped cash or a wallet.
While the elderly person checked their belongings, another gang member would reportedly steal their bank cards, which were then used for fraudulent transactions.
Authorities believe the scheme targeted 39 individuals, aged between 70 and 100, across various Sydney suburbs, as well as locations on the state’s South Coast and in Grafton, New South Wales’ northern region.
Two weeks ago, Queensland Police apprehended three other Romanians believed to be associated with the same criminal group.
He appeared before a Western Australia court and was later extradited to Sydney, where he was escorted through the Qantas terminal by police.
As he made his way through the terminal, the man was captured giving a thumbs-up sign to cameras, as well as appearing to offer sarcastic applause.
He also waved to the cameras as he was put in the back of a police car.
The man has now been charged with 18 offences, including six counts of stealing from the person with a value less than or equal to $2000, and stealing from the person more than $2000 and less than or equal to $5000.
He was refused bail this afternoon in a Sydney court and will remain behind bars.
NEVER MISS A STORY: Get your breaking news and exclusive stories first by following us across all platforms.