MELTON SOUTH, VIC. — Detectives from the Financial Crime Squad have charged two men allegedly associated with over $200,000 worth of 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 May 28.
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 May 29 with assistance from NSW Police.
He faced Downing Local Court on May 30 and was subsequently extradited to Victoria the following day.
The man was charged with conspiracy to defraud and possessing and using identity information offences.
The 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 several skimming devices in ATMs across Victoria.
An investigation remains ongoing.
Crime Stoppers 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
