Overview
- National Police investigators in Bilbao led Operation 'Scooby' and detained about 20 people in Bizkaia after a multi-month inquiry into fake online pet listings.
- Suspects are under investigation for continued fraud, identity theft and belonging to a criminal organization and were presented to courts before being released on charges.
- Investigators say the group posted fake adverts for puppies on social networks and sales platforms, used phone contacts and photos to build trust, then asked buyers for small payments that never led to delivery.
- Police identified more than 30 account 'mules' used to receive payments and traced thousands of euros in rapid Bizum transfers to accounts tied to the scheme, with victims across Mallorca, Andalusia and the Valencian Community.
- Authorities continue to process seized evidence and transaction records while the case highlights how fast-payment services and high demand for pets can be exploited by organized online fraudsters.