Overview
- The syndicate’s ‘blessing scam’ has targeted more than 80 elderly Asian women across Sydney since mid-2023, netting over A$3 million
- Perpetrators posed as spiritual advisers, persuading victims to seal their life savings and jewellery in bags that were then switched for valueless items
- A 63-year-old woman arrested at Sydney Airport on July 3 and a 62-year-old man extradited from Brisbane this week have been charged and remain in custody
- On July 9, NSW Police issued arrest warrants for seven additional alleged syndicate members believed to operate on short flights to and from China
- Strike Force Sentinel investigators are tracing stolen cash and jewellery and urging anyone with information to come forward