Brazilian police revealed a bizarre incident involving a woman attempting to secure a loan using a deceased man at a bank branch.
The woman, Erika Vieira Nunes, brought a 68-year-old man in a wheelchair to the bank in a Rio suburb.
Surveillance footage captured Nunes’ attempt to get the man, who had already passed away, to sign for a loan worth 17,000 reais (€3,000).
Despite the man’s inability to respond, Nunes held a pen and tried to move his hand forward, urging him to sign for the loan.
Nunes addressed the man as “Uncle,” indicating a familiar relationship, and insisted that he needed to sign for the loan application.
She explained to the bank teller that the man’s lack of response was normal behaviour, implying that she was authorised to sign on his behalf.
Suspicions arose among bank staff as they noticed the man’s head repeatedly falling backwards during the interaction.
Recognising the unusual circumstances, bank personnel promptly contacted local authorities, leading to Nunes’ immediate arrest on fraud charges.
The security camera footage played a crucial role in documenting the attempted deception and aiding law enforcement in their investigation.
Authorities intervened to handle the situation appropriately, ensuring the proper handling of the deceased man’s remains.
The incident underscores the importance of vigilance and verification processes in financial institutions to prevent fraudulent activities.
It also highlights the need for awareness regarding elder abuse and financial exploitation, particularly in vulnerable populations.
The arrested woman faces legal consequences for her actions, serving as a cautionary tale about the repercussions of fraudulent behaviour.
This news serves as a reminder of the complexities and ethical considerations involved in financial transactions and caretaking responsibilities.
