Car sale conman targeting the elderly across region

The fraudster has been cold calling addresses across Walsall, Wolverhampton, Sandwell and north Birmingham offering to sell a vehicle.

He has frequently targeted elderly victims and convinces them his family are struggling financially because of an ill relative he claims is being treated at Walsall Manor Hospital.

The con artist has targeted more than 20 residents claiming he needs to quickly sell the family car at a reduced price, often stating it is of a similar model to that on the victim's drive.

Once a sale is agreed the victim is asked to drive him to the hospital to pick up the keys and logbook. On arrival he takes a cash deposit and walks off into the hospital but doesn't return.

There have been at least 17 occasions where victim's have been fleeced of up to £500 across an eight-month period.

Police described the conman as Asian, around 5ft 5ins tall, aged 35 to 50, of stocky build and with short dark black hair. On several occasions he has been wearing a brown coat.

Pc Joel Haden, from the Bloxwich investigation team, said: "We have received a number of similar reports between September last year and the start of April and believe the same man is responsible for all of them. Victims have parted with up to £500 cash on at least 17 occasions and we want to warn anyone who is approached in this way to refuse his offer and contact police as soon as possible.

"He often describes the car he has for sale as being similar to whatever make and model is parked on the victim's driveway in an attempt to get them interested. Officers are following up a number of lines of inquiry relating to these cases."

Anyone who has been targeted or information about the man responsible should call police on 101. Alternatively, call independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.