Overview
- Three Romanian nationals were arrested at an Eight Mile Plains unit complex on Saturday, when officers seized nearly $20,000.
- Investigators allege the group used a ‘wallet-drop’ distraction, telling seniors they had dropped cash, then taking wallets and using bank cards at ATMs and checkouts.
- A 49-year-old man and a 29-year-old woman face multiple fraud, stealing, and break-in charges, and were refused bail after a March 28 court appearance, with their cases adjourned to April 15.
- A 42-year-old man was charged with one count of stealing and was granted bail to reappear at Southport Magistrates Court on April 8.
- Police are examining possible links to New South Wales and Victoria and urge shoppers—especially older people in centres like Kenmore, Chermside, Strathpine, North Lakes, Buddina, Caloundra and Laidley—to monitor accounts and report suspicious transactions immediately.