Senior citizen defrauded of tens of thousands of euros – witnesses sought
Police are warning of a current scam in Darmstadt-Arheilgen. On Monday (March 10), unknown criminals managed to deceive a senior citizen with a so-called shock call and swindle him out of a large sum of cash.
According to current information, the perpetrators impersonated doctors on the phone and claimed that the man's son was in a medical emergency. They demanded a large sum of money to finance a supposedly urgently needed medication. The elderly man then handed over several tens of thousands of euros to a supposed courier at around 6p.m.
The criminal police have launched an investigation. So far, there are no leads as to the perpetrators.
Witnesses sought: Who observed anything suspicious?
Investigators are asking: Who noticed suspicious persons or vehicles in the Herzbergweg area of Darmstadt-Arheilgen on Monday (March 10)?
Information can be provided to the Criminal Investigation Department – Central Investigations 40 in Darmstadt by calling 06151 / 969 – 0 .
Police issue urgent warning about shock calls
This scam specifically exploits the fears of older people. The police strongly advise:
- Don't let yourself be pressured. Remain suspicious of calls that put you under emotional pressure.
- Hang up immediately! Call the person back using a number you know.
- Do not disclose any personal data or financial information over the phone.
- Never hand over cash or valuables to strangers – no matter the reason.
- If you suspect anything, contact the police on 110.
The police are appealing to all citizens, especially older relatives, to inform them about this scamin order to prevent further cases.
(DARMSTADT – RED/ots)
