NSW Police is urging the public to beware of a recent ‘blessing scam’ targeting older people with Asian ethnic backgrounds.
Police say scammers have been generally target elderly Chinese women, and exploit cultural fears by convincing victims their families are at risk from spirits and need their wealth blessed before they ask victims to exchange their money or luxurious items with blessed items.
Examples of recent scams include:
- At around 8.30am on Wednesday September 25th, a 76-year-old woman was approached by another woman on Evaline Street, Campsie. The 49-year-old woman was allegedly told her daughter will be seriously injured and her wealth must be blessed to prevent the injury. A short time later the woman returned to home with three other women and exchanged an amount of cash and number of jewelleries with a bag of rice and water, what they call blessed.
- At 3.20pm on Wednesday May 8th, a 71-year-old woman was approached by another woman on John Street, Cabramatta. A short time later two other women joined them and allegedly told the victim that her son will have a car accident in three days. A short time later, the woman exchanged an amount of cash and her jewelleries with a plastic bag, what they call a magic.
Police believe all three female offenders involved in the alleged scam were of Asian appearance, aged in their 40s, and around 150cm – 160cm tall.
“Police urge members of the public to not provide any details or items when someone approaches them and tries to frighten you for a spiritual reason, but to contact their nearest police station immediately,” NSW Police said.
As inquiries continue, anyone with information about these incidents is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
