Greater Manchester Police (GMP) are actively searching for a conman who has been targeting vulnerable pensioners by pretending to be a police officer. The scammer, using the name ‘PC/DC Matthew Philips’ and badge number 5772, has phoned elderly residents, convincing them to hand over large sums of money.
Between April 4 and June 15, GMP recorded ten reports linked to this fraud. The caller falsely claims that the victim is involved in a fraud investigation and pressures them to withdraw money from their bank accounts. Following the phone call, an accomplice dressed casually in tracksuit bottoms and a hoody arrives to collect the cash.
The amounts stolen range from £2,000 to an alarming £70,000. Most victims are pensioners in their 70s and 80s from Bolton areas including Little Lever, Horwich, and Westhoughton. In at least two incidents, the scammer walked away with more than £6,000.
Detective Sergeant Robert Parker commented: “Impersonating a police officer is illegal, but doing so to defraud innocent members of the community is a heinous crime. We’re doing everything we can to catch whoever is responsible.”
He added, “No police officer would randomly call and ask you to withdraw money. If you get a call like this, ask for ID or call 101 to check. Always dial 999 in an emergency.”
Police are appealing to the public to come forward if they have been targeted or have any information about this scam. Detectives believe this is part of a nationwide effort to exploit vulnerable people.
Anyone with information or who suspects they have been a victim is urged to contact GMP via their website or by calling 101. Reports can also be made anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Authorities advise everyone to stay alert and protect themselves and their loved ones from falling victim to these fraudulent schemes.
Originally published by UKNIP.
