Sydney Woman Charged For Posing As A Psychic In Alleged Organised Psychic Scam

A Sydney woman has been charged with fraud, after allegedly posing as clairvoyant as part of an organised crime ring’s long-standing psychic scam.

Police are investigating accusations that the alleged crime syndicate are scamming victims out of their savings and property by posing as psychics. It’s believed the psychic scam has been operating in Sydney for 18 years.

Tina Montana was arrested in Punchbowl on Wednesday morning, where police seized items including a crystal ball, cartomantic (similar to tarot) cards, and small antique statues linked to ‘fraudulent’ readings.

The 48-year-old woman was taken to Campsie police station where she was charged with 13 offences, including identity theft, money laundering, participating in organised crime group, fraud and hindering the discovery of evidence.

Psychic scam allegedly operating in Sydney for 18 years

The syndicate, believed to have been operating in the Sydney area since 2006, is said to have defrauded at least four victims of substantial amounts of money and property.

Strike Force Recycling, established in July 2024, is investigating the fraud scheme.

Montana is the third person to be charged in connection with the case. 

A 48-year-old woman and a 49-year-old man, believed to be connected to Montana, were charged in August with multiple fraud-related offences and are currently facing court proceedings.

Detective Inspector Craig Brooks accused the group of deliberately targeting individuals for financial gain.

“Police will allege the syndicate were claiming to be psychics and during that process with the victims they were encouraging them to provide them with property and money, which they have obviously kept,” he said.

“We will be alleging that these offenders have taken property from their victims and not returned it in breach of what the victim would have expected when engaging these services,” he said.

When asked about allegations that those charged were accepting money to “spiritually cleanse” it, Detective Brooks confirmed that this would be part of the ongoing police investigation, as reported by 7News.

Authorities have warned the public to be cautious and avoid handing over money to anyone claiming to have psychic abilities.

“Clearly, if any person out there is asked to provide money to any psychic for any services, I strongly urge them not to,” he said.

Police suspect there may be additional individuals involved in the syndicate. They are urging anyone with information, or anyone who believes they or someone they know may have been victims of the scam, to come forward and contact Crime Stoppers online or on 1800 333 000.