Conmen scam cash out of shoppers

Apr 10 2008

CONMEN in Kidderminster are spinning a "web of lies" to scam cash out of shoppers and motorists.

A number of incidents in the town centre has seen men preying on members of the public in a bid to gain a quick cash profit.

On each occasion shoppers have been approached by a man claiming that members of his family had been involved in a car crash and he needed to borrow money to visit them.

False assurances were given that money would be repaid and incorrect details including wrong phone numbers were given to those handing cash over.

In another incident in Oxford Street, on March 3, a member of the public was approached and £12 handed over to a man who claimed that his wife and two children had been involved in an accident and he needed money to visit them in hospital.

A similar approach was made to a man in Morrisons when the offender claimed he had run out of petrol and needed cash.

Today, police warned members of the public to remain vigilant and think twice before handing cash over to strangers.

PC Paul Noke said: "People should be very wary if they are approached for money in this way ."

* Witnesses can call police on 08457 444 888.