Police are urging residents across Lincolnshire to remain vigilant following two shocking fraud incidents in Skegness where victims were deceived into handing over large sums of cash to criminals posing as officers.
The warning comes after incidents on Wednesday 28 January, in which victims were targeted by highly convincing fraudsters claiming to be conducting official police investigations.
In both cases, victims received phone calls from individuals pretending to be police officers. One of the names used was “DC Martin from the Met Police”. The callers told victims they were investigating alleged fraud or money laundering linked to their bank accounts and instructed them to withdraw cash as part of the supposed investigation.
Victims were then told to hand the money over to a courier, with fraudsters often claiming the cash needed to be examined for fingerprints. They were also warned not to tell anyone, including their bank, as it would “compromise the investigation”.
Police have stressed that these tactics are extremely convincing and carefully orchestrated to exploit trust and create panic.
One incident (317 of 28 January) was reported at 4.19pm after a man visited a victim’s home at around 2.50pm to collect an envelope of cash.
A second incident (414 of 28 January) was reported at 7pm, following a similar visit at approximately 3pm, where another victim handed over money.
In both cases, a “password” system had been arranged beforehand, with the suspect providing the agreed codeword upon arrival. The man collecting the cash was reported to be wearing a face mask.
Police have issued a stark reminder to the public:
Officers will NEVER, under any circumstances, ask you to:
- Withdraw money and hand it over
- Share your PIN number
- Give them your bank card
- Purchase items or vouchers as part of an investigation
While these incidents took place in Skegness, officers warn that this type of crime often moves from area to area, meaning residents across Boston and the wider county could be targeted next.
Residents are urged to remain cautious and to challenge any unexpected requests involving money, even if the caller claims to be from the police.
Anyone who receives a suspicious call is advised to hang up immediately and report it. If someone attends your property asking for money, do not engage and contact police straight away.
Police are continuing their investigation and are asking anyone with information or concerns to come forward.
