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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 Quick-thinking bank staff intervened in all three cases, preventing any money from being withdrawn.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.
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.
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