Dunedin / Auckland – Police have arrested a 44‑year‑old Ellerslie woman in connection with an alleged romance scam that reportedly ran for nearly two decades and cost a Dunedin man more than half a million dollars.
The arrest follows a coordinated operation involving both Dunedin Police and the Auckland City Financial Crime Unit, who executed a search warrant at an Auckland property today.
According to Acting Detective Senior Sergeant Ali Ramsay, from the Auckland City Financial Crime Unit, police will allege in court that the elaborate scam began online in 2006 and continued for 18 years.
“The offender in this case has allegedly obtained $525,537 through this elaborate scam,” she said.
The woman has been charged with obtains by deception and is expected to appear in the Auckland District Court on 17 February 2026.
Detective Senior Sergeant Ramsay said the arrest represents a significant breakthrough in what has been an extensive and challenging investigation.
“Our colleagues in Dunedin have been investigating this case, and we’re glad to have assisted in this result,” she said.
“Romance scams are usually perpetrated by offshore offenders, making prosecutions difficult for law enforcement. At the very heart of this are victims whose good nature is taken advantage of, causing emotional and financial stress.”
Police say they cannot comment further as the matter is now before the court.
Meanwhile, authorities are urging the public to remain cautious when forming new connections online or through dating applications, especially when money or personal details are involved.
