Watch Out, Romsey Shoppers! Elderly Man Targeted in £1,800 Bank Card Scam
Hampshire Police warn shoppers after an 84-year-old man was duped and robbed of £1,800 from his bank card during a nasty distraction scam in Romsey.
Woman Spots ‘Dropped £10’ – Then Makes Off With Card
The victim was out walking along Latimer Walk, heading towards Waitrose around 3pm on Sunday, January 13, when a woman tapped him on the shoulder.
She claimed he’d dropped £10. When the man pulled out his wallet to check, she slipped away — and later his card was used to drain £1,800 from multiple cash machines.
Police Describe Suspect – And Warn Shoppers to Stay Sharp
The suspect is a white woman, 35-45 years old, slim, about 5ft 2in. She had scruffy hair, dirty fingernails, and wore dark clothing.
Officers have stepped up patrols in Romsey town centre and put up posters packed with vital crime prevention tips.
- Always shield your PIN and stay alert when using cash machines.
- Keep wallets and purses close; don’t show them to strangers.
- Be suspicious if someone claims you’ve dropped money or suddenly asks for directions.
- Never hand money over to strangers, no matter what they say.
Got Info? Contact Romsey Police Now
If you witnessed the incident or faced similar scams, call Romsey Police on 101, quoting crime reference 44160102690.
In emergencies, dial 999.
Prefer to stay anonymous? Ring Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 and help stop scammers in their tracks.
