Scammers who tricked vulnerable elderly people into handing over thousands of pounds were snared after police went undercover.
Arbaaz Khan, 31, was part of a phone fraud ring that persuaded nine pensioners, with an average age 87, to hand over their bank cards on an 'urgent' pretext.
Khan would send a ‘runner’ to collect the card from the victims’ homes – before the group drained all the money from their accounts.
They stole £11,940 from nine victims between November 1, 2021 and February 16, 2022.
On the day Khan was arrested, he had sent a runner to the home of a 101-year-old woman.
The investigation began after a report from a pensioner in Hampstead. Soon, it was linked to other reports across London.
One victim said that the scammers had stolen their savings.
They explained: “I felt really, really low after this happened. I made the mistake and now I will have to pay for it.
“This money was my savings.
“I would encourage anyone who is the victim of a crime like this to contact the police and help prevent this happening.”
Khan pleaded guilty on March 12 to conspiracy to steal and will be sentenced on May 9 at Snaresbrook Crown Court.
Other members of the ring, Bradley Goode, 23, and Hanad Mohamed, 20, also admitted conspiracy to steal.
Mohamed is due to be sentenced alongside Khan in May, while Goode has already been handed a community order of 120 hours' unpaid work.
Abi Wood, CEO of Age UK London, said: “This is a terrible case of scamming older people who are so often targeted for this type of crime.
“In this case, the work of the Metropolitan Police officers has been vital to prevent any more people becoming victims and we are pleased to see the criminals were caught.
“Our advice to older people is to say no. Never disclose your bank details either over the phone or to someone in person who asks for it and never hand over your bank cards.
“If you are unsure, check with your bank or someone you know before doing anything.
“For doorstep scams, keep all doors locked when answering the door as people can work together.
“Use a chain on the door, especially if you are not expecting anyone, ask for ID, and ask them to wait while you check with their organisation.
“A genuine person would not mind you doing this. If you feel unsafe or pressured, contact family, a friend, or the police.”
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