3 arrested for cash for gold robbery scheme in Fairfax County

FAIRFAX COUNTY, Va. - Detectives in Fairfax County are investigating a cash-for-gold robbery scheme. 

Back in October, Fairfax County police believe a man stopped to help a group of people along I-495. A woman reportedly said they needed money to continue their travels and offered to sell him a watch and gold jewelry.

She then convinced the man to drive her to an ATM. That's when two men kidnapped the victim, took him to four other ATMs and forced him to take out money.

Once the victim’s accounts were empty, police said the suspects left the victim, and he called 911.

Beware of 'Kidnapping Scam,' Fairfax County police warn

Officers believed this crew was likely operating in the area and continued to search for the black SUV used in the crime. 

On Nov. 3, an officer saw a gray Chevrolet Tahoe that appeared to be disabled on the Dulles Toll Road. 

The officer conducted a traffic stop and identified the occupants as 39-year-old Magdalena Mazil. 36-year-old Hagi Yoinescu and 36-year-old Romeo Yoinescu. Officers obtained consent to search the vehicle and located large amounts of fake gold jewelry.

Fairfax County police arrested Hagi and Magdalena on Nov. 22. Romeo remains on the loose.  

Each of the suspects faces abduction and robbery charges.