Brits have allegedly had their drinks spiked then seen their bank accounts emptied in a stag-do hotspot in Europe.
Two nightclub owners, bar staff, waiters, hostesses and a taxi driver in Bucharest face trial after allegedly spiking and robbing revellers.
Three Britons, an American and a German have all reportedly been targeted at two clubs in Romania‘s capital city, which is famed for its cheap booze and busy nightlife.
Prosecutors are reported to have alleged the defendants lured unsuspecting tourists into the venues with free alcohol and private dancers.
Police are reported to have alleged bar staff went on to steal bank cards and phones once the club-goers were completely intoxicated, according to The Sun.
The same publication reports cash was allegedly transferred from banking apps on the victims’ phones after they were unlocked using facial recognition.
Officers in Bucharest launched an investigation in March 2024 after a British tourist lodged a complaint with local police.
He alleged that he was charged a staggering £10,000 for what should have been a £10 taxi ride to his hotel in the city.
Another Brit is said to have been charged £15,000 when he was drunk at a club in the capital.
Prosecutors alleged the defendants broke into a flat where an American tourist was staying and stole jewellery, mobile phones, an iPad, laptop, passport and bank card.
Club employees spent almost £40,000 on the man’s bank card. The defendants are alleged to have kidnapped the man when he tried to get his belongings back.
They allegedly locked him inside a club and carried on using his bank card, but he managed to force a window open and get help.
Prosecutors said the crimes were committed between November 2023 and May 2024, with the first arrests made in June last year.
It is believed an estimated £70,000 has been stolen as a result of the crime spree. Brits have been warned of a risk of spiking in bars and clubs by the Foreign Office, which urges tourists to be careful not to take drinks from strangers or leave drinks unattended.
The trial is due to start in Bucharest in the spring.
