Serial Scammer Poses as GMP Officer to Swipe Thousands from Elderly Victims
Greater Manchester Police are hunting a conman who’s phoning vulnerable pensioners, pretending to be an officer, and scamming them out of huge cash sums.
Fake ‘PC/DC Matthew Philips’ Rings Up, Demands Cash
Between April 4 and June 15, police recorded ten linked reports of a caller claiming to be “PC/DC Matthew Philips,” badge number 5772. The scammer tells victims they’re involved in a fraud investigation, insisting they withdraw money from their bank accounts. Then a “colleague” turns up in tracksuit bottoms and a hoody to pick it up.
The stolen amounts range from £2,000 to a shocking £70,000.
Bolton Pensioners Targeted – Police Warn Everyone to Stay Alert
The victims, mostly in their 70s and 80s, come from Bolton areas including Little Lever, Horwich, and Westhoughton. In at least two cases, the crook walked away with over £6,000.
Detective Sergeant Robert Parker said: “Impersonating a police officer is illegal, but doing so to defraud innocent members of the community is a heinous crime. We’re doing everything we can to catch whoever is responsible.”
“No police officer would randomly call and ask you to withdraw money. If you get a call like this, ask for ID or call 101 to check. Always dial 999 in an emergency.”
Police Appeal: Speak Up If You’ve Been Targeted
Detectives believe this is a nationwide scam targeting vulnerable people. They’re urging anyone with info or who suspects they’ve been caught up in this to contact GMP through their website or by calling 101.
You can also report details anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Stay sharp and don’t let these scammers rob you or your loved ones.
