Two people have been arrested in connection with fraud offences after a local bank intervened to stop an elderly woman from handing over more than £3,000 to a cleaning company under suspicious circumstances.
The incident occurred when a woman in her 70s attempted to withdraw £3,400 from her account at a Borehamwood bank, claiming it was to pay for a deep clean of her home. Concerned by the unusual request, bank staff raised the alarm with police, who swiftly responded.
According to police, the cleaning company in question sent workers to the woman’s home without invitation and without agreeing a price in advance. When her withdrawal request was initially declined, the woman returned to the bank in person, accompanied by a 36-year-old woman from Radlett. Police arrived shortly after and arrested the woman on suspicion of fraud.
A 42-year-old man, also from Radlett, was later arrested in connection with the same investigation.
Police Praise Vigilant Bank Staff
Detective Constable David Lancaster, from the Case Investigation Team, praised the actions of the bank staff and issued a warning to the public about cash-based scams targeting vulnerable people.
“Fraudsters will often try to scam potential victims by persuading them to withdraw large sums of cash from their local bank branch and hand it over to them,” said DC Lancaster. “They know that once they have the cash, it can be difficult to trace and return it.”
“These scams can range from rogue builders offering bogus work to fraudsters pretending your bank account is compromised. But what they all have in common is the targeting of society’s most vulnerable — particularly elderly victims.”
He added: “If you are questioned by bank staff, please do not take offence. This is part of a scheme designed to protect you and your money from fraudsters.”
Ongoing Investigation
Police have confirmed that enquiries are continuing and that both individuals remain under investigation. The incident serves as a timely reminder for families and carers to remain alert to signs of financial exploitation, especially when involving elderly loved ones.
Anyone who suspects they may have been a victim of fraud is urged to report it to Action Fraud by calling 0300 123 2040 or visiting www.actionfraud.police.uk.
