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Police issue warning as three elderly people targeted by fraudsters in Suffolk

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Ipswich.co.uk Logomark in a circle

Ipswich's only independent news website

We publish the stories that matter and champion everything that's good about our town – without the ads, popups or tracking

Police are investigating three separate incidents where elderly people were targeted by fraudsters in Suffolk. Quick-thinking bank staff intervened in all three cases, preventing any money from being withdrawn.

Why it matters: Fraudsters are actively targeting vulnerable residents in Suffolk, attempting to convince them to withdraw large sums of money through various deception tactics.

Elderly lady on her phone
Police are investigating three separate incidents where elderly people were targeted by fraudsters in Suffolk

The big picture: Three incidents have been reported so far:

  • An elderly woman in Bury St Edmunds was assisted by bank staff after becoming confused while trying to withdraw a large sum

  • A woman in Lowestoft attempted to withdraw £2,000 after receiving calls claiming she was being watched

  • An elderly man in Bury St Edmunds tried to withdraw £5,000 after being offered a discounted painting by a stranger

What they're saying: Detective Inspector Rory Prior called the incidents "despicable crimes", saying: "The perpetrators are preying on vulnerable people in a bid to cheat them out of their savings."

Police advice:

  • Do not respond to phone requests to withdraw money

  • Families should help safeguard elderly and vulnerable relatives

  • Report suspicious activity to police

Bottom line: Suffolk Police are dedicating specific resources to track down the offenders and urge anyone with information to contact them via www.suffolk.police.uk/tell-us or call 101.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

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Quick fire crew response prevents Spring Road blaze from spreading

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Firefighters raced to a home on Spring Road earlier this morning to tackle a bedroom blaze, successfully stopping flames from spreading to the roof.

Two fire crews at the scene
Two crews attended the sceneSFRS

The occupant was alerted to the fire and woken up by their smoke alarm, allowing them to safely exit the property and call Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service quickly.

Firefighters from Princes Street and Ipswich East fire stations were on scene within minutes of being called at 10.18am. The incident was closed at 12.40pm.

Burnt remains of a bedroom
Firefighters stressed the importance of closing bedroom doors at nightSFRS

Two crews responded to the incident.

The fire is believed to have been caused by an electrical appliance. Residents can find more information about fire safety in their homes through Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service's safety guidance.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

We can't do this without you!

If you value strong, free, independent local media that fights tirelessly for our town, please consider contributing just £24 per year

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