Police are investigating two phony city employees and a bogus craftsperson in Poland
The Bochum Police are urging caution among the city's elderly residents after a series of scams targeting them and resulting in the theft of savings.
In the first incident, which occurred on Tuesday, August 19, around 3:30 PM in the Bergstraße area of Herne-Mitte, a scammer posing as a handyman gained entry to a 66-year-old woman's home under false pretenses and stole her purse.
The following day, on Wednesday, August 20, another scam took place in the Cranger Straße area of Herne-Baukau. An unknown couple, consisting of a man and a woman, claimed to be from the city works and managed to steal cash from an 84-year-old resident.
The Bochum Police are investigating both incidents, with Criminal Investigation Unit 13 leading the investigation in the Cranger Straße incident. Witnesses are being sought regarding the fleeing accomplice in this case.
The suspect in the Cranger Straße incident is described as a male, approximately 25 years old, with short hair, a slim build, and summer clothing. His accomplice was of the same age, with a sturdy build, black hair, a black blouse, and black pants. The suspect in the Herne-Mitte incident is described as a male, approximately 170 cm tall, around 50 years old, with dark hair, a white t-shirt, and jeans; he spoke with an accent.
The Bochum Police are advising residents not to let strangers into their homes and to be vigilant against such scams. In case of suspicion, the police emergency number 110 should be called immediately.
To help combat these crimes, the Bochum Police have 60 volunteers who are ready to assist elderly residents with topics such as fraud, trick theft, and burglary protection. To contact these volunteers, call 0234 909-4055.
For more information or to contact the Bochum Police, visit their website at https://bochum.police.nrw/ or call the Press Office at Jens Artschwager, telephone: 0234 909 1023, email: [email protected]. The Bochum Police can also be reached for Criminal Watch at 0234 909-4135 or -4441.
Regrettably, the name of the lead security advisor of the Bochum police who particularly cares for elderly affected individuals is not found in the available search results. The Bochum Police remain committed to ensuring the safety and security of all residents, especially the elderly, and encourage anyone with information about these scams to come forward.
