Thames Valley Police say people should come forward if targeted by fraudsters

Thames Valley Police issued the plea as it ramped up its awareness campaign against con artists who have tricked elderly people in Abingdon out of £150,000 worth of live savings.

Detective Inspector Paul Powell told the Oxford Mail: “Fraud really is a despicable crime because people are conned out of their hard-earned life savings, but they are often left feeling embarrassed, foolish, and scared to answer the phone or the door.

“It’s important that people have the courage to come forward if they think they may have been scammed, or if they’re worried for a friend or loved one. There’s nothing to be embarrassed about.”

He said minutes could be all it takes to prevent a loved one falling victim to fraudsters, who have left a trail of devastation in the town and surrounding villages since December.

He added: “We are asking the public to talk about courier fraud with their families, friends and neighbours – especially anyone who is elderly or vulnerable.”

The force is handing out prompt cards with information and advice about the scammers, who ring up pretending to be bank employees or police officers and persuade people to hand cash to a courier. Call 101 if you have information.