Police in Bolton are actively searching for a scammer who has been contacting vulnerable pensioners, pretending to be a detective from Greater Manchester Police. Since April 4, there have been five reported incidents, with detectives warning that more victims may not yet have come forward.
The scam involves the fraudster calling from a withheld number and claiming to be investigating bank fraud. The caller instructs victims to withdraw large sums of cash, ranging from £2,000 up to £70,000. A so-called “colleague” then arrives to collect the money, often described as wearing tracksuit bottoms and a hoody.
The scam has primarily targeted elderly residents from Little Lever, Horwich, and Westhoughton, all aged in their 70s and 80s. Tragically, two victims have handed over cash, with the largest amount stolen exceeding £6,000.
Police believe a young man is responsible for this series of scams, deliberately preying on those he considers vulnerable.
Detective Chief Inspector Dean Purtill of Bolton district said, “Impersonating a police officer is illegal. But doing it to scam innocent people out of their savings is shocking. We’re working hard to catch this offender and we urge anyone who thinks they’ve been targeted to come forward.”
He added, “No police officer would ever ask you to withdraw cash or hand it over. Always ask for ID and call 101 if unsure, or 999 in an emergency.”
If you have been affected or have any information, contact Greater Manchester Police online via their LiveChat or call 101. You can also provide information anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Originally published by UKNIP.
