An extensive investigation into online fraud by the Malta Police Financial Crime Investigations Department has led to the arrest of a 25-year-old woman and an 82-year-old man, following coordinated operations carried out on 2nd February 2026.
The woman is suspected of being the main local figure in an online fraud scheme in which victims were allegedly deceived through impersonation of a local bank. Police investigations so far have identified around 200 victims, with total financial losses estimated at approximately €1 million.
According to the Police, the suspect has been linked to an organised international criminal network with connections to Ireland and the United Kingdom. The operation in Malta formed part of a wider, coordinated effort involving Europol, as well as Irish and UK law enforcement authorities.
During searches conducted in Malta, police seized €8,000 in cash from a residence in Paola. A separate search in Qrendi led to the confiscation of several mobile phones and electronic devices believed to be connected to the investigation.
At the same time, searches carried out by the Irish Garda resulted in the seizure of additional mobile phones and electronic devices as part of the same operation.
The Police confirmed that investigations are still ongoing, and further developments are expected as authorities continue to analyse seized material and pursue links to the wider criminal network.
News Editor
Journalist and Newscaster
Leave a Reply