NKorea defectors grilled over alleged fraud

http://missoulian.com/news/world/asia/nkorea-defectors-grilled-over-alleged-fraud/article_9b55f289-2b17-57f2-9009-6ad220a5694d.html?comment_form=true

South Korean police say they have uncovered an insurance fraud scheme involving more than two dozen North Korean defectors.

The Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency said Tuesday that 27 defectors are suspected of faking illnesses to bilk insurance companies out of hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Police say in a statement that some of the money has been sent to family members in North Korea. Police are also investigating two brokers who were allegedly involved. Police say six hospital officials are also suspected of helping the defectors fake illnesses.

Seoul says more than 23,000 North Koreans have come to South Korea since the 1950-1953 Korean War. Many struggle to adapt to life in the South.