Fraudster Jailed for Targeting Elderly With Fake Bank Scams
Mohammed Koita, 22, has been locked up for ripping off vulnerable pensioners with slick phone and doorstep cons. The Ilford man appeared at Bromley Magistrates Court on 23 September, pleading guilty to two counts of fraud by false representation.
Snatched Debit Card and Quick Cash Grab
On 18 December 2019, Koita cold-called a 70-year-old man in Bromley pretending to be from Barclays Bank. Claiming there was an issue with the victim’s bank card, he said a collection team would pick it up the next day. When Koita turned up in person, the victim got suspicious and hesitated. Koita then snatched the card and fled in a black Volkswagen.
- £20 was spent minutes later on petrol.
- Attempts to spend £1,965 at a clothing store and withdraw £500 cash were declined.
- CCTV caught Koita in a distinctive red puff jacket, which police found at his home.
Fake NatWest Call and Gift Card Trick
In a separate scam on 22 February 2019, Koita targeted an 84-year-old woman in Dorset. Posing as NatWest staff named ‘David 1’ and ‘William Wallace,’ he set up a fake card delivery with a courier called “Simon.” Claiming security code CM012, Koita handed over a plain envelope containing a Google Play gift card instead of a bank card.
- The victim was duped into handing over her real card and PIN.
- £100 was stolen from her account shortly after via an ATM.
- Fingerprint evidence on the envelope linked Koita to the crime.
Detective Condemns “Cowardly” Crimes Against Elderly
“These were cowardly crimes committed against vulnerable elderly victims,” said Detective Scott Pounder of the Met’s North East Economic Crime Unit. “Fraudsters like Koita layer their lies to seem genuine, making it hard for victims to realise until it’s too late. Many victims feel embarrassed and don’t report these crimes, but we urge everyone to come forward. “Koita’s guilty pleas spared the victims from the trauma of a trial. While no physical harm was done, the emotional impact of being scammed at home runs deep. “I hope the sentence brings some closure to these deeply upsetting incidents.”
Sentencing Details
- Count One: Six months imprisonment plus £122 victim surcharge.
- Count Two: Six months imprisonment.
- Both sentences will run concurrently.
