Two Warsaw residents intervened to stop a fraudster attempting to steal 60,000 złoty from an elderly woman using the “police” scam method on Bemowo district.
Police Commend Citizens’ Intervention
Yesterday, Komendant Rejonowy Policji Warszawa IV, podinsp. Sebastian Kołodziej, and Bemowo District Councilor, Pani Monika Ślusarczyk, thanked two men for their exemplary actions that led to the arrest of a fraudster and the protection of a senior citizen’s savings, in the presence of Komendant Komisariatu Policji Warszawa Bemowo, nadkom. Rafał Dąbek.
Komendant Kołodziej emphasized the men’s attitude and commitment deserved the highest respect and appreciation. The men requested their privacy be respected, stating their intervention stemmed from a desire to help, not seek publicity.
Details of the Incident
The incident occurred in Warsaw’s Bemowo district. Police were alerted to a man struggling with an elderly woman and snatching her bag containing money.
Upon arrival, officers found two witnesses who had apprehended the suspect. The 41-year-old was aggressive and attempted to break free, but was restrained and handcuffed.
The “Police” Scam Unveiled
Investigators determined the senior citizen had received a phone call from a man posing as a police officer. He requested her assistance in catching a gang of thieves, instructing her to hand over cash and directing her to a specific location.
The unsuspecting woman followed the instructions, appearing at a bus stop on Bemowo around 5:00 PM with a bag containing 60,000 złoty. A man then attempted to snatch the bag, causing it to tear and the money to fall to the ground.
Swift Action by Witnesses
Two witnesses immediately reacted, running towards the man and detaining him. The senior citizen was unharmed and did not require medical attention.
Arrest and Legal Proceedings
Police arrested the 41-year-old, who was taken into custody. A breathalyzer test revealed a blood alcohol content of 0.2%. Investigators gathered evidence, interviewed the senior citizen and witnesses, and charged the suspect with attempted fraud.
Following a request from the Warsaw-Wola District Prosecutor’s Office, the suspect was temporarily arrested by a court order.
A Positive Example for Society
Podinspektor Kołodziej acknowledged the men’s actions demonstrated the support the public provides to law enforcement. He expressed hope that such behavior would serve as an example for others, encouraging them to intervene in similar situations despite the fast pace and indifference of modern life.