Scam Alert: Fake Carabinieri Officer Targets Naples Residents Post-Robbery
Naples, April 18 – A new scam has emerged in Naples, exploiting the widespread media attention surrounding the recent Credit Agricole bank robbery in Piazza Medaglie d’Oro. Authorities are warning the public after an individual, posing as a Carabinieri marshal, attempted to defraud a resident in the affluent Posillipo district.
The incident occurred on Friday afternoon when a man telephoned a woman, claiming to be a Carabinieri marshal actively involved in the investigation of the bank heist. During the call, the imposter reportedly questioned the woman about the presence of jewelry and cash in her home. This alarming development has prompted a police investigation into a possible connected fraud.
The Recent Credit Agricole Bank Robbery
The attempted scam follows a significant bank robbery at the Credit Agricole branch in Vomero on April 16. Reports indicate that over 40 safety deposit boxes were stolen during the heist. The robbers, described as a professional gang of 7-8 individuals, allegedly gained entry through the sewers and wore masks, with some accounts mentioning “The Rock” masks. The incident involved hostages and a dramatic escape through the sewage system, leading to a massive manhunt.
Carabinieri Issue Warnings
The Carabinieri themselves are actively warning citizens about these types of scams. This is not an isolated incident, as similar “fake Carabinieri” scams have been reported elsewhere, including Ferrara, where an elderly person was targeted with the claim that their car was used in a jewelry store robbery.
Police are currently verifying the details of the Posillipo incident and are working to identify the individual involved. At present, there are no official confirmations regarding the exact methods used or all parties involved in the attempted fraud. The focus remains on identifying the imposter and preventing further exploitation of the public.
Ongoing Investigations and Public Concern
The bank robbery itself has been a major topic of discussion in Naples, with theories ranging from the involvement of an inside informant to the professional nature of the gang. The escape through the sewers has added a dramatic element to the story, captivating public attention. One hostage recounted that the robbers were “confident and not angry like in movies.”
The authorities are urging residents to be vigilant and verify the identity of anyone claiming to be a law enforcement officer, especially when asked about personal belongings or financial details. This recent attempted scam highlights the opportunistic nature of criminals who seek to capitalize on public fear and confusion following high-profile events.
As investigations continue into both the bank robbery and the attempted fraud, the community remains on edge. The police are committed to bringing those responsible to justice and ensuring the safety of Naples’ residents.
