Police investigating report of fraud after suspect impersonates detective to obtain jewellery in Crawley

A Sussex Police spokesperson said: “Police are appealing for information after scammers impersonated police in calls to residents in Sussex.

“Officers are investigating a report of a fraud where a suspect impersonated a police detective to obtain jewellery in Crawley.

“The incident happened in the Tilgate area of Crawley at about 3pm on 21 October, where a man attended an address to collect items, claiming to be from “Hammersmith Police”.

“The victim had received scam phone calls in the afternoon, and we believe others may have received similar calls on the day.

“In recent months forces have seen examples of criminals making calls or sending text messages to appear as though they come from a trusted organisation like the police, banks, or government agencies.

“These scam calls may be automated, or from a real person. Their main goal is to trick you into sharing personal information or to transfer money.

“A police officer will never call out of the blue asking for personal information, including bank account details.

“A police officer will never ask you to withdraw money or purchase high value items as part of an investigation.

“We urge anyone who has received a suspicious call from someone attempting to gain their personal details and claiming to be from Sussex Police to report it to us online, or call 999 in an emergency.

“Anyone who recognises the man shown is asked to report it to Sussex Police, quoting serial 1043 of 21/10.

“Further advice and guidance about how to check the identity of a Sussex Police officer or staff member and how our officers and staff may contact you is available online here.

“Further advice and guidance about common tools used by scammers is online here.”