Elderly lady saved after quick thinking by bank and officers caught robbers in the act

Earlier today at around 11am a report came in from Market Street, Bolton of suspicious activity and a concern for welfare.

Our Tactical Vehicle Intercept Unit (TVIU) were quick on the scene and found two men with an elderly lady in a bank. Enquiries established she was taken there by two men who demanded she withdraw a substantial amount of money, taking advantage of her vulnerabilities, when knocking on her door.

As time went on and they become suspicious, our officers pounced on them at the scene.

Two men aged 27 and 48 remain in custody on suspicion of fraud by false representation. With one also being wanted for other offences.

Sergeant Paul Lockett from our TVIU team said; “Our work doesn’t always involved fast-paced pursuits, but on this occasion with us being able to respond rapidly and the knowledge of the bank staff that something wasn’t right and to report it instead, we managed to startle them and catch them there and then before any harm could be done.

“In this incident, I think we can all agree that extorting and taking advantage of vulnerable people in our society for quick monetary gain is one of the most shocking and heartbreaking acts you can do.

“We now have district detectives questioning them on their motives and actions and we were able to return the lady who was understandably upset and confused back to her home safely whilst informing her loved ones.”

If anyone has any additional information is asked to call 101 quoting incident 985 of 02/10/2024. Alternatively, details can be passed on anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Fraudsters usually deploy tactics to create a sense of urgency to make the victim respond quickly. They create a sense of panic, and we encourage people to take 5 to stop and take some time to think about why you are parting with your money and if it feels suspicious. Challenge, ask yourself if this request could be fake, criminals will try to rush you and finally, protect yourself by contacting your bank to report any suspicions.

If you’ve been the victim of a fraud or online crime (cybercrime) you can report it to Action Fraud online at Reporting fraud and cybercrime | Action Fraud or contact 0300 123 2040 (Monday to Friday 8am to 8pm).