Watch Snatched in Brazen Charity Scam Near Tunbridge Wells
A man was targeted by two crafty females just before noon on Saturday, 12 March 2022, near the A26 1 Road and Rocks Hollow Gardens.
The pair approached as he stepped out of his car, flashing pieces of paper and claiming they were raising money for a hospital helping the deaf and blind. But it was a ploy.
Watch Grabbed – But Quickly Dropped
While pointing at their ‘documents’, one suspect grabbed the victim’s arm and tried to snatch his watch. She got hold of it briefly but dropped it when the victim fought back. Both then bolted to a nearby car.
The getaway car was a white or silver VW Golf, driven off by a third person waiting inside.
Suspect Descriptions and Police Appeal
- First female: White, around 16 years old, slim, 5ft tall, wearing dark clothes.
- Second female: White, about 20, broader build, similar height, short dark hair, dark clothing, and a face mask.
Both spoke with an Eastern European accent.
Detective Inspector Jim Farley said: “It is possible these people may have targeted other potential victims in and around the Tunbridge Wells area and we are urging anyone who may have noticed anything suspicious to contact us. We are also asking relatives and neighbours to keep an eye out for elderly or vulnerable neighbours who may have unwelcome visitors to their doors.”
Spot Them? Contact Kent Police
If you have info, call Kent Police on 01622 604100, quoting reference 46/46640/22. You can also ring Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or use their online form.
