In an investigation into fraud by fake officers, the police came across this suspect. Surveillance footage was used in the investigation. The resident of Kerkrade was arrested on July 23. After the arrest, a search was conducted at the suspects home.

Bank Account Plundered
The seven fraud cases occurred between March and July this year at addresses in Kerkrade, Gulpen, Meerssen, Doenrade, Nuth, and Bocholtz. These involve cases of helpdesk fraud and fake officers, where primarily older victims were called by someone claiming to be from the bank or the police. Then, someone would come to the door to secure the debit card, money, and jewelry. Subsequently, the bank account was also plundered using the stolen debit card.

The suspect is still in custody, and the case is still under investigation by the Heuvelland Basic Team.

Dont Fall for It!
As police, we receive multiple reports daily of so-called fake officers out to defraud people. We emphasize that a real officer never calls or comes to your door to secure jewelry or money. Hang up immediately if you receive a call from someone claiming to be from the police asking about your valuables. Call the police yourself at 0900-8844 to verify if you were indeed called by a police officer. If an officer comes to your door to collect valuable items or money, call 112.

How to Recognize a Real Officer?
We know that there are fraudsters who wear police clothing. They may only wear a police polo. A real officer wears their uniform fully: with trousers, high work shoes, and a belt with weapons and handcuffs. A real police officer can always identify themselves with a police identification card. This is a card in the form of a drivers license with a name, personnel number, and photo. Plainclothes police officers must show this themselves, and they give you all the time you need to examine the proof carefully.

Always Report and/or File a Complaint!
Again: if you dont trust it, call the police and dont hesitate to close the door and not let anyone in! If an attempt has been made to defraud you or you have been defrauded, always report and/or file a complaint, as this gives us the opportunity to connect cases together.