An operation conducted yesterday, Wednesday, in Establiments has been given the codename ‘Frux Clearing’. The Guardia Civil arrested three individuals suspected of committing bank fraud against numerous victims. The suspects are also accused of belonging to a criminal organisation.
Officers carried out searches at two properties on the island, seizing documents, mobile phones, and other electronic devices. One property in Establiments was home to a Swedish couple, aged 64 and 52, who were both arrested. The other, in Santa Ponsa, led to the detention of a 67-year-old British man. All three are believed to have created a company linked to a private banking institution registered in Gambia, without any authorisation to carry out investment operations in Spain.
The suspects reportedly targeted wealthy individuals at golf club events in Mallorca, persuading them to invest by promising substantial returns in what is said to have been a classic pyramid scheme. Once the victims handed over their money, the organisation allegedly transferred the funds to countries with looser tax regulations before sending them to the Republic of Gambia. Authorities estimate the total amount defrauded at around 500,000 euros, and there may be additional victims.
The Swedish woman was released from Guardia Civil custody yesterday, while the other two suspects appeared before the courts on Thursday morning. They have been released pending further legal proceedings.
The Guardia Civil has urged the public not to make any financial investments without first carrying out proper checks to ensure the legitimacy of the project in question.