Two Frenchmen Arrested for 10,000 Franc Driveway Scam in Zurich

Two French nationals, aged 34 and 53, were arrested in Kloten on Wednesday after allegedly defrauding an 84-year-old man in Nürensdorf, Zurich. According to the Zurich Cantonal Police, the suspects charged the victim over 10,000 francs for cleaning his forecourt and later returned to threaten him for the remaining balance.

How did the forecourt cleaning fraud occur?

The incident began last Friday when two men approached the 84-year-old resident and persuaded him to let them clean his forecourt. After completing the work, the men demanded over 10,000 francs for the service, according to the Zurich Cantonal Police.

The victim paid a portion of the requested amount. On Wednesday morning, the suspects returned to the residence to demand the rest of the money, leading the man to call the police emergency line to report that he was being threatened.

Did You Know? The suspects were apprehended in a delivery van on Bassersdorferstrasse in Kloten shortly after 4 p.m. on Wednesday.

Where were the suspects apprehended?

The suspects fled the victim’s home before police arrived on Wednesday morning. However, the victim called the emergency line again Wednesday afternoon after the men reappeared at his home.

The Zurich Cantonal Police immediately launched a search. They intercepted the described delivery van on Bassersdorferstrasse in Kloten, where they arrested the two French nationals, aged 34 and 53.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that this case highlights the danger of “pressure tactics” used by unsolicited contractors. By combining fraud with usury—charging grossly excessive prices—perpetrators target the psychological vulnerability of the elderly to secure immediate payment.

What are the legal consequences and next steps?

Following police interrogations, the two suspects will be handed over to the public prosecutor’s office. They must answer for charges including fraud and usury, according to official reports.

Footage of nurse Lucy Letby's first police interview

Depending on the prosecution’s findings, the suspects could face fines or imprisonment. The Zurich Cantonal Police are using this case to warn the public against spontaneous orders from unsolicited handymen.

Police safety recommendations

Call 117 immediately when unsolicited handymen appear.
Do not allow yourself to be pressured by sudden offers.
Avoid granting spontaneous work orders.
Critically examine all service offers.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much money did the fraudsters demand?
The suspects demanded over 10,000 francs for the cleaning of the forecourt.

Who were the individuals arrested in Kloten?
The arrested individuals are two French nationals, aged 34 and 53.

What specific charges are the suspects facing?
The suspects are being held for fraud and usury.

How can communities better protect elderly residents from unsolicited service offers?