“You Look Like Our Mother”: Two Men Arrested for Attempted Senior Fraud

Prompt police intervention in Warsaw’s city center led to the arrest of two Romanian nationals, aged 22 and 19, who attempted to swindle an 88-year-old woman out of 20,000 PLN.

The Deceptive Scheme

Last week in Warsaw’s Śródmieście district, two men approached an 88-year-old woman returning from grocery shopping. They claimed she resembled their mother and offered to help carry her bags. After gaining her trust, they gifted her a set of cutlery and pots, falsely claiming the items were made of gold.

The situation escalated when the men demanded 20,000 PLN in exchange for the “gifts.” They drove the senior to a local bank to withdraw the cash, waiting nearby to observe the branch.

Bank Employee Alert and Arrest

The woman’s behavior raised suspicions with a bank employee, who contacted emergency services via 112. Police arrived within minutes to secure the senior, identify the suspects, and circulate their descriptions to nearby patrols.

Officers quickly apprehended the 22 and 19-year-old Romanian citizens, who reside in Łódź. During the operation, police impounded their vehicle and recovered multiple sets of pots, kitchen knives, and a stun gun. One suspect was found carrying nearly 7,000 PLN, which was seized as potential collateral for future penalties.

Legal Consequences and Public Warning

Both suspects have been charged with attempted fraud and face up to eight years in prison. By order of the District Prosecutor’s Office in Warsaw-Śródmieście, the men have been placed under police supervision while the investigation continues.

Authorities urge the public to remain vigilant and avoid trusting strangers who offer “gifts,” unique opportunities, or unsolicited help that eventually leads to demands for money. If in doubt, residents should contact family members or the police immediately.