Ashdod resident arrested in 'Russian fraud' scheme targeting elderly

The Anti-Fraud Department of the Southern District Police has been conducting an undercover investigation for several weeks against an Ashdod resident suspected of involvement in the so-called “Russian fraud,” which targeted elderly Russian-speaking Israelis across the country.

The suspect allegedly took one of the victims to her bank and attempted to force her to hand over withdrawn funds. He was arrested before the victim was harmed.

Investigators report that the suspect posed as an authorized representative to deceive elderly individuals, coercing them to transfer their savings to him. A search of his home revealed dozens of credit cards belonging to victims nationwide, 14,000 shekels in cash, documents, and other evidence.

The suspect, approximately 50 years old, was taken to the Beersheba Magistrate's Court after questioning. His detention has been extended until May 22.