A convicted repeat offender posing as a secret agent took inspiration from police-themed action movies, made a fake Security Information Service (BIS) badge, purchased an airsoft gun, and then lured money from women on dating sites. But Prague detectives have turned the spotlight on him, and now the 33-year-old is facing charges of fraud.
The recidivist has been playing a secret agent since the end of April this year. “For this purpose, he made a BIS badge and bought an airsoft gun. Under the legend of a secret agent, he subsequently met women on dating sites, from whom he extorted money for various reasons, ” police spokeswoman Violeta Siřišťová said.
To date, detectives have registered two victims. “His actions have caused more than CZK 50 000 worth of damage,” Siřišťová said.
However, police do not rule out that the perpetrator also managed to extort money from other women. “If you have encountered this fake police officer, who presented his BIS card or tried to extort money in any way, please call 158 immediately,” the police ask.
The suspect was arrested by detectives shortly after midnight on Tuesday in the Prague district of Karlín. Officers from the riot unit assisted them in the raid.
“During the search, our colleagues found an airsoft gun (an imitation CZ 75D Compact) in a holster marked with the word POLICE, a BIS card hanging from his neck, and two knives in his jacket,” the spokeswoman said.
The 33-year-old now faces a charge of felony fraud. If convicted, he could spend up to two years in prison. “The accused told police officers during questioning that he was running away from the reality of a miserable life and decided to pose as an undercover agent based on the experience he gained from watching police-themed TV shows. The man is being prosecuted at large,” Siřišťová said.