Elderly Woman in Terracina Scammed by Fake INPS Official, Man Arrested in Naples
Naples, May 2 – In a significant development, Carabinieri from Terracina, with the support of local law enforcement, executed a precautionary custody order yesterday in Naples’ Secondigliano district, leading to the arrest of a 60-year-old man. The individual is under investigation for aggravated fraud, following a complaint filed by an elderly resident of Terracina.
The investigation began after the victim reported that in February, she was approached at her home by a man posing as an INPS (National Institute of Social Security) official. Under the pretext of delivering a registered letter, the perpetrator managed to deceive the woman.
The Deception and the Aftermath
According to the Provincial Command of Latina, the man employed “artifices and deceptions” to persuade the victim to hand over 1,000 euros in cash. He falsely claimed that this payment was necessary to finalize the delivery of an INPS check. It was only later that evening, when the victim’s son examined the documents left behind – blank printouts from a credit institution – that the scam was uncovered.
The son’s description of the perpetrator, combined with effective information sharing among various Carabinieri units, enabled authorities to identify the suspect. It was revealed that the man had a history of similar offenses across different parts of Italy.
Law Enforcement’s Commitment to Protecting Vulnerable Victims
The Public Prosecutor’s Office of Latina has emphasized its continued focus on analyzing and combating such insidious forms of crime targeting elderly individuals, who are often vulnerable victims. This commitment is supported by the continuous and dedicated efforts of the Carabinieri, operating through their local stations spread throughout the territory.
Details of the Arrest and Ongoing Efforts
The arrest took place in Naples, a city in the Campania region of Italy. The specific date of the arrest was May 1, 2026, with the news being reported on May 2, 2026. The Carabinieri’s swift action underscores the importance of inter-agency cooperation in tackling criminal activities that span across different regions.
This case serves as a reminder for citizens, especially the elderly, to exercise caution when dealing with individuals claiming to be officials from public institutions. It is always advisable to verify their identity and the legitimacy of their requests through official channels before providing any personal information or money.
The investigation into the full extent of the man’s criminal activities is ongoing, and authorities continue to urge anyone with information regarding similar scams to come forward.
