Fraudster steals thousands of pounds in 'cheap car' scam, CCTV issued: Whitby/London
(SE1 - Wednesday, 11 January, 2012)

North Yorkshire Police have released CCTV images of a suspect who allegedly stole thousands of pounds from a Whitby man.

The suspect is pictured at 10.25am on 22 November 2011 entering the London Bridge branch of Barclay's Bank in Southwark, South London, and withdrawing money he is suspected of fraudulently obtaining from the victim.

A few days earlier, the victim had answered an advert on the classified adverts section of the PistonHeads website and bought a Nissan Navara 4x4 which was on sale for £3,500.

The vehicle would normally sell for around £10,000 and in light of the bargain price, the victim electronically transferred the money to a Barclays account without seeing it.

The account has since been closed down by the bank due to the large amounts of money being deposited and then removed a short time later.

Upon receiving a receipt for his purchase, the victim realised he had been conned, as the vehicle details were wrong, and contacted the police.

Enquiries have pinpointed the moment the suspect withdrew the money and officers are urging the public to help them identify him.

The offender is described as:

• a black male
• aged 30 to 40
• stocky build
• shaven head
• glasses
• wearing a purple shirt over a white t-shirt, a black coat, black trousers and black shoes

The CCTV images also show him carrying a small briefcase and a brown envelope.

PC Damien Taylor, of Whitby Safer Neighbourhood Team, said:

"The images of the suspect are very clear and I am certain that someone will be able to help us identify him.

"Although this is a country-wide appeal, there is a good chance he is based in the London or South East area.

"He has left the victim considerably out of pocket and I would urge anyone who knows who he is to contact the police with information.

"I would also like to remind people of the age-old saying, that if something appears too good to be true then it most probably is.

"Please be absolutely certain about who you are dealing with before handing over any money."

Anyone who can help the police with their enquiries is urged to contact North Yorkshire Police on 101 - select option 2 - and ask for PC Damien Taylor or Whitby police.

Alternatively call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

Police Force: North Yorkshire

Address:
Barclay's
Borough High Street
London Bridge
South East Londo
SE1