In Indian River Shores, a major gold bar scam targeting elderly residents has led to the arrest of Rakeshbhai Harshadbhai Patel, 35, on charges related to his role as a “courier” in a nationwide scam operation. Patel was arrested on January 10, 2025, following an arrest warrant issued in November 2024. He was apprehended at Dallas Fort Worth Airport on December 30, 2024.
The scam began early in 2024 when at least three residents of Indian River Shores lost nearly $2 million in total. The scam, which involved gold bars, was considered a “first of its kind” by local detectives. It differs from more common online scams, as it included an in-person intermediary, known as a courier, who collected the stolen valuables directly from the victims.
The primary victim, a 77-year-old woman, was tricked into purchasing gold bars worth approximately $156,000 after being manipulated by a person impersonating a government official. The scammer instructed her to convert her money into gold bars to “secure her finances.” The woman was directed to meet a courier in the CVS parking lot on State Road A1A, where surveillance footage captured her handing over the gold bars.
Through investigative efforts, including the use of license plate readers and vehicle rental records, Patel was identified as the individual who rented the vehicle used in the scam. Additional evidence tied him to locations in Fort Pierce and Okeechobee, further implicating him.
Patel, who is believed to have entered the U.S. earlier in the month via Miami International Airport, is facing charges including larceny of over $50,000 from a person over 65. He is currently being held at the Indian River County Jail with a $1 million bond.
In a related case, another individual, Syed Makki, 36, has been arrested in Colorado for his alleged role as a courier in a separate gold bar scam that also targeted elderly victims. Makki, who was detained in Illinois, faces extradition to Indian River Shores to face charges related to his involvement. Makki is also under investigation for his role in similar scams in Colorado and Kansas, which led to the recovery of $1.1 million in gold bars.
Both Patel and Makki are believed to be part of a larger network orchestrated by a figure known only as “The King,” who is said to be responsible for arranging the scams and directing the couriers.
Detective Rodney Grass of the Indian River Shores Public Safety Department, who has been investigating the case, urges residents to be cautious if they suspect a scam. “If you think something is suspicious, don’t click on links or respond to unsolicited messages. Shut your computer off and seek advice from professionals or contact local authorities.”
Patel has not yet secured an attorney. His extradition and the ongoing investigation into additional suspects will continue as law enforcement works to bring justice to victims of this elaborate scam.