A notorious couple on the run from justice has finally been caught after a trail of 49 frauds and 4 identity thefts left victims across Spain reeling.
The pair, described by authorities as living “like ghosts,” used stolen personal data to impersonate their victims—so convincing that some ended up with police and court summonses they never expected.
The 36-year-old man and 44-year-old woman had been hiding in Torrevieja since 2022, rarely leaving their home, relying solely on cash, and keeping the blinds down at all times to avoid detection. Their secret double life came crashing down thanks to Operation Avilator 25 by the Civil Guard.
How the Scam Worked
The duo targeted people looking to rent apartments online. They advertised fake properties at below-market prices and asked for personal documents under the guise of rental contracts. Using this information, they sent fake contracts and photos—stolen from previous victims—to gain trust.
Once victims were hooked, the couple guided them to make payments using cardless ATM codes, instantly withdrawing the cash. Over the years, this scheme became their main source of income. They even opened multiple prepaid phone lines under victims’ names—sometimes six lines in just a few days!
A Trail of Chaos Across Spain
Authorities have identified 53 victims from A Coruña to Tenerife, including Alicante, Madrid, Málaga, Valencia, and dozens of other provinces. Beyond financial losses, victims suffered the terrifying reality of having their identities hijacked.
The Arrest
In November, police located the couple in their Torrevieja hideout. A search uncovered 25 phone lines, 5 mobile phones, 2 tablets, clothing used in the crimes, 20 grams of marijuana, and traces of cocaine use. The suspects, along with the seized evidence, were handed over to the Torrevieja Court, which ordered both to be imprisoned.
This audacious crime spree proves that even in the digital age, nothing is safe—not even your identity.
