In Western Australia five “Irish builders” have been charged for their involvement in a roof repair scam.
In total 26 Irish nationals were arrested in connection with the alleged fraud. This included women and children who were arrested in Perth in January. Two of the detainees were later released , however 24 were detained for pending deportation and had their visas revoked. 12 of the 24 have returned to Ireland voluntarily.
The five men will appear in court on the 12th of February in relation to charges of fraud, theft and unlawful possession. The arrests followed complaints from residents including one from an elderly male who alleged the accused had taken the sum of AU$17,000 from him to have his home and driveway painted. The elderly resident claims that the work was started but not finished. Other complainants claim to have paid for roofing work which was not completed and have alleged that the work that was undertaken caused damage to their homes.
Several of the elderly people who came forward claimed the men accompanied them to the bank and waited whilst the withdrew the cash that was requested to pay the accused.
During the searches carried out by police in connection with the investigation several high value assets were seized . These items included two Rolex watches and over AU$120,000 in cash along with vehicles and building equipment.