Occult Fraud Expands: Two More Arrests and House Search
As part of the investigations against the alleged occult fraudster Mariana M. alias "Amela", the police have arrested two more suspects. On Monday, 29-year-old Dona D. alias "Anna" was arrested on suspicion of commercial serious fraud and membership in a criminal organization. The following day, a 47-year-old Austrian was arrested on suspicion of money laundering and membership in a criminal organization. Dona D. was transferred to the Vienna-Josefstadt prison and exercised her right to remain silent.
New Arrests and House Search in Maria Enzersdorf
At the same time, investigators searched a house in Maria Enzersdorf once again. Extensive valuables were secured, including fine silver, cash, jewelry, gold, and luxury watches, whose value still needs to be determined. Additionally, officers found weapons and ammunition. The building belongs to the 29-year-old son of Mariana M., who is already in pre-trial detention in Wiener Neustadt.
Alleged Damage in the Double-Digit Million Range
The Economic and Corruption Prosecutor's Office (WKStA) Vienna ordered the renewed house search. Dona D. is also suspected of being involved in the occult frauds. The police have published a photo of her to identify possible further victims.
The scale of the alleged fraud case is significant. According to the Lower Austria State Criminal Police Office, the damage caused by occult fraud amounts to a double-digit million figure. Last week, investigators reported the seizure of large amounts of cash and high-value valuables. According to LKA chief Stefan Pfandler, a safe contained, among other things, 4.1 million euros and 2.1 million Swiss francs (equivalent to 2.23 million euros) in cash.
Search for Mariana M. Continues
Mariana M., considered the mastermind of the fraud, remains at large. A European arrest warrant has been issued against the 44-year-old. Investigators believe she has been active throughout the German-speaking region for several years, possibly with accomplices.
The Lower Austria State Police Directorate has published photos of the secured valuables on their search page. Affected victims are asked to contact the Lower Austria State Criminal Police Office at the phone number +43 59133 303333. Information on the whereabouts of "Amela" is also welcome.
(APA/Red)
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