Spanish police have apprehended five individuals accused of defrauding two women of €325,000 (£271,000) by impersonating Hollywood star Brad Pitt online.
According to Spain’s Guardia Civil, the suspects contacted the victims through a fan website dedicated to the Oscar-winning actor, convincing them they were involved in a romantic relationship with him.
Under the guise of Pitt, the gang allegedly encouraged the women to invest in nonexistent projects. One victim from Andalusia lost €175,000, while another from the Basque Country was defrauded of €150,000.
The criminals meticulously studied the victims’ social media to craft psychological profiles, targeting those who appeared vulnerable and emotionally distressed. They communicated through instant messaging and emails until the women believed they were conversing with Pitt himself, who promised a romantic future.
Authorities arrested the suspects in Andalusia, including the gang’s alleged leaders. During the operation, police conducted five home raids, recovering mobile phones, bank cards, two computers, and a diary containing phrases used to deceive the victims.
So far, officers have managed to recover €85,000 of the defrauded amount.
