Two women from Utrecht have been arrested as part of an investigation into a major dating fraud involving dozens of victims.

The women, aged 26 and 41, are said to have been operating between June 2022 and September this year. In total, the 26 known victims lost €550,000.

The victims were approached on a dating website by the women using false names. They then worked to build up online relationships with their victims before asking for money and goods.

In some cases, the victims arranged to meet the women in person. The victims were then pressured to buy things for their “dates” in various shops. The suspects were often accompanied by others as well.

Police have also searched three premises in Utrecht and confiscated money, jewellery and a car.

Other people who have fallen victim to the gang are asked to contact the police and make a formal complaint. Further arrests have not been ruled out.