Roy Garine Arrested in Albania Over Alleged Fraud Call Center Empire Linked to Germany

 According to investigators, Garine is suspected of leading an organized criminal group that operated fraudulent call centers from Albania, targeting victims in several European countries, including Germany and France.

 Israeli national Roy Garine is accused of running a major fraud call center network from Albania, with investigators probing alleged money laundering and international scam operations.

Initially identified only by the initials R.G., investigators later concluded that he allegedly coordinated a sophisticated cross-border fraud operation from Tirana.

Evidence reportedly includes WhatsApp messages in which members of the group discussed delayed flights, transportation arrangements, daily payments and operational updates. While the conversations appeared ordinary at first glance, prosecutors believe they were coded communications used to coordinate the alleged scam network.

Authorities allege that Garine built a network of fraudulent call centers in Albania that generated hundreds of thousands of euros, with investigators examining whether the total proceeds reached into the tens of millions.

Prosecutors also allege that Kevin Shytaj acted as one of Garine's closest associates. Investigators claim Shytaj established several companies—including SHYTAJ GROUP, SKYLINE DEV HUB, and PACK & GO TRAVEL & RENT—which are suspected of being used to facilitate money laundering.

According to the investigation, the criminal network allegedly laundered large sums of money through companies, bank accounts, foundations and other financial mechanisms designed to conceal the origin of the funds.

Investigators further allege that Garine enjoyed a luxurious lifestyle while living in Albania, with residences in Tirana, Gjiri i Lalzit, and Durrës, as well as expensive vehicles and frequent international travel.

Another individual identified by the initials H.P. has also been mentioned by investigators as a suspected member of the group.

Garine is currently in custody in Albania and is awaiting extradition proceedings to Germany, where authorities are pursuing criminal charges related to the alleged fraud scheme.

The investigation remains ongoing as authorities seek to determine the full extent of the network, identify additional suspects, and trace the total amount of money allegedly moved through the operation.