Italian authorities have dismantled a criminal network that targeted elderly victims across the country using the "fake marshal" scam.
The group, based in Naples, tricked victims into handing over money and valuables by pretending to be police officers or lawyers seeking funds for a relative in legal trouble.
Over two years, the gang carried out 45 successful scams, amassing €700,000. A coordinated operation led to the arrest of 29 individuals, including the leaders, Alberto Macor and Marica Mastroianni.
The criminals used burner phones and social media to coordinate their schemes, often sending "specialized" operatives to northern cities.
Authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant, emphasizing that law enforcement will never request money at home.
