CCTV images released after bogus charity collectors steal money from pensioner in Oswestry
Police are hunting bogus charity collectors who stole money from the purse of a pensioner in Oswestry. West Mercia Police released CCTV of two women they want to talk to.
It comes after a number of reports where members of the public were approached by two women collecting for either a deaf or disability charity, in Shropshire and Worcestershire.
Their main aim is to distract potential victims while money is taken from either their purse or wallet, police warned.
One report was made on April 21, when a woman in her 70s and a friend were approached by the two women.
The incident took place around 3.40pm on Bailey Street, in Oswestry. The women said they were collecting money for a hearing aid charity, but the elderly lady refused to give any money.
She was then asked for her signature and proof of identification.
It was not until later that the victim noticed money had been taken from her purse.
Police have released CCTV images of two women they wish to speak to, who may have vital information that can help their investigations.
Detective Constable Dan Griffiths said: “We are keen to speak to anyone who recognises either of the women in the CCTV image.
“This was a distraction technique theft and it’s quite a malicious one, as it preys on people’s vulnerabilities and generosity for those in need.
“The message is to be vigilant at all times and not leave valuables on show. If anyone has information please contact us on 101.”
Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or at crimestoppers-uk.org
Police said similar incidents also happened in Worcestershire.
A couple in their 60s had been approached by two women near an Asda in Pershore asking them to sign a petition for the disabled and blind children.
They asked to see identification and a signature, and police say they placed a form over the victim’s wallet and money was taken.
Both offenders are described are believed to be Asian women, between 20 and 25-years-old and about 5ft tall.
One was wearing light coloured clothing and a black scarf.
Another incident took place between at the Riverside Shopping Centre on Bridge Street, Evesham on Wednesday.
The two offenders were believed to be Eastern European women with shoulder length dark brown wavy hair, early to mid 20s, around 5 ft 2ins to 5 ft 5ins in height. They were wearing dark clothing.
