Leader of Lujo Casa real estate fraud arrested in Barcelona after months on the run

Carlos García Roldán, alias ‘Charly’, the chief figure behind the Lujo Casa real-estate scam, was apprehended by the Guardia Civil in Barcelona after almost nine months as a fugitive. Police traced him to a home in Arenys de Mar and executed the arrest on behalf of the Balearic court that had issued a warrant in December. The court had previously sentenced him to 14 years and nine months for aggravated fraud, participation in a criminal group, illicit insolvency and money-laundering, alongside two partners.

The scheme allegedly affected 230 victims across more than 30 unfinished projects, with the proceeds spent on parties, casinos, jewelry and travel. This is the third time García Roldán has fled justice, having previously escaped to Colombia where he underwent facial surgery before being recognized and extradited back to the islands.