‘Irish Scam’ Spreads Across Europe: Two Arrested on Spain’s Costa Brava

Spanish police have arrested two Irishmen on the Costa Brava on suspicion of participating in a scam targeting homeowners, a practice increasingly known across Europe as the “Irish scam.” The arrests, made last week, highlight a growing trend of fraudulent activity carried out by gangs preying on residents and tourists alike.

Details of the Scam

The pair were part of a seven-person gang accused of coercing a local resident into paying thousands of euros for unwanted work. According to reports, the gang allegedly threatened the homeowner and even blocked his driveway with their van until he agreed to pay.

Authorities are warning homeowners to be vigilant against these con artists. The scam typically involves criminals posing as tarmac crews offering to resurface driveways with “surplus” material at a discounted price. Although, the work is often shoddy, quickly deteriorating after completion, and the initial price can escalate rapidly.

Beyond the tarmac scam, these gangs are reportedly employing other tactics, including:

• Home Repair Fraud: Offering to fix minor exterior faults for a low price, then claiming to discover more serious issues and demanding exorbitant fees.
• False Emergency Requests: Approaching passersby claiming a car breakdown and requesting cash for repairs, often using fake banking apps to deceive victims.

Costa Brava as a Hotspot

The latest incident occurred in Lloret de Mar, a popular tourist destination on the Costa Brava that attracts up to 200,000 Irish visitors annually. Police, known as the Mossos d’Esquadra, responded to the homeowner’s call and arrested the two alleged ringleaders, recovering over €6,000 in cash. Both men have been released under formal investigation, and authorities believe there may be additional victims in the area.

Broader European Trend

While dubbed the “Irish scam,” authorities note that the gangs involved are often comprised of individuals from Ireland, England, and other European countries. The scam has been reported in multiple European nations, with police issuing warnings and sharing information about the tactics used. French police, for example, issued a warning last year about similar tarmac scams.

Protecting Yourself

The Mossos d’Esquadra advises anyone who suspects they are being targeted by these scams to contact the police immediately.