Up to 26 Irish held over roofing scam in Australia

A group of Irish men, women and children, are reportedly being held by authorities in Western Australia accused of running a roof-fixing scam that targeted the elderly.

There are media reports that up to 26 people have been detained.

ABC isreporting that two of those arrested are17-year-old boys from the same family.

Western Australia Police confirmed on their Facebook page that five men and two juveniles were arrested at a caravan park on the outskirts of Perth in Hazelmere.

A large sum of cash was seized "along with other items of interest", according to police.

A number of visas are being examined and police say it ispossible some of those held may be deported.

Police have said thatthis month alone 39 complaints were made about the scam, with an elderly woman paying AUS$12,000 (8,400) for roof repairs with only minor work being carried out.

In a couple ofinstances, elderly customers were taken to banks or ATMs to withdraw the cash.

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Up to 26 Irish held over roofing scam in Australia