Detectives from Victoria’s Financial Crime Squad have charged two men they say are associated with more than $200,000 worth of allegedly fraudulent card skimming transactions linked to a Romanian organised crime syndicate.
With assistance from detectives from Taskforce VIPER and Melton police, investigators executed warrants at two residential addresses in Melton South and Weir Views on 28 May, Victoria Police said in a statement.
A 38-year-old Melton South man was arrested and interviewed by police. He was subsequently charged with conspiracy to defraud, possessing and using identity information, and obtaining property by deception offences.
Police also seized 50 skimming devices, machine parts, cash and high end designer goods alleged to be the proceeds of crime from the addresses.
A 43-year-old Weir Views man was arrested at Sydney Airport on 29 May with assistance from NSW Police. He faced Downing Local Court on 30 May and was subsequently extradited back to Victoria the following day where he was charged with conspiracy to defraud and possessing and using identity information offences.
Both men were both remanded in custody to face Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 21 August.
The investigation commenced in March this year and investigators allege the men are responsible for installing a number of skimming devices in ATMs across Victoria.
Anyone with information on fraudulent activity is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
