Lottery Scam In Watford

13 September 2011, 06:00

ELDERLY Asian residents are being warned to be extra vigilant following several reports of a scam in the county where they have been approached in town centres by people claiming to have won the lottery but having no identification to cash the wining ticket.

The residents are being asked to claim the winnings on behalf of the offenders but have to provide their own cash to the offenders first as a security against the winnings.

Recent offences have been reported in the Watford and Hitchin areas.  Two male offenders were involved in each incident. 

Detective Constable Jennifer Stoddart, who is investigating the series said: “We would really like the elderly, particularly elderly members of the Asian communities, to be on their guard following this series. The people carrying out this scam are opportunists and I would urge any member of the public who sees anything suspicious, or who may have been approached by anyone stating they have a winning lottery ticket to come forward. We need your assistance to help bring these people to justice.”

 Anyone with information can contact Dc Stoddart on 101 quoting crime reference G1/11/2349 or alternatively Crimestoppers in confidence on 0800 555 111.