Two Arrested in Australia Over ‘Chinese Blessing Scams’ Targeting Elderly Asian Women
Chinese blessing scams: Australian police have arrested two suspects accused of deceiving elderly Asian women with fake curse rituals.
The arrests coincide with investigations into more than 80 instances of suspected thefts totaling AU$3 million ($2 million USD) around New South Wales.
What Is the “Chinese Blessing Scam”?
Scammers posing as spiritual healers use this dishonest technique to convince gullible people that a loved one faces spiritual peril. During a fake blessing ceremony, scammers instruct victims to place cash and valuables in a bag to ward off bad luck, then secretly steal the contents.
Who Was Arrested?
- A 63-year-old woman was detained at Sydney International Airport on Thursday.
- Police arrested her alleged male accomplice, also 63, on Friday at Brisbane Airport as he tried to fly to China.
The duo allegedly scammed a 77-year-old woman in Parramatta in June, stealing AU$130,000 ($85,000 USD) in cash and jewelry.
More Arrests Expected
Police have identified 50 suspects, issued 11 arrest warrants, and believe the scam is far more widespread than reported due to shame and cultural stigma in the affected community.
“It’s like a role play,” said Detective Superintendent Guy Magee. “They prey on vulnerable elderly Asian women in their own communities, using superstition and fear to steal from them.”
Community Warning
NSW Police urge the public to:
- Be cautious of people asking for directions to a Chinese healer
- Never hand valuables to strangers for spiritual rituals
- Never bring unfamiliar individuals home
Authorities advise reporting all suspicious behavior immediately.
Source: CNN