COUNTY NEWS: Police warning to beware of potential fuel and jewellery scam

Police have issued a warning to motorists in Sussex about a potential new scam.
Police newsPolice news
Police news

There have been several suspicious incidents in the county in which people were offered gold jewellery in exchange for money to buy fuel.

People approached by a man claiming to be stranded have both refused the proposal, although one fetched some fuel, and it is thought to be a scam, Sussex Police said.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The force said the jewellery may well be worthless, and officers are keen to hear from anyone else who has been offered an exchange for cash, on the basis it is to buy fuel.

On Tuesday (August 9) at 3.30pm the driver of a dark green car stopped outside a property in North Trade Road, Battle, and appeared to be in difficulty.

He claimed to have run out of fuel and offered jewellery in exchange for cash to buy some, but was actually given some fuel by a local resident and drove off.

At 4pm the same day a motorist was flagged down at Staplecross and again offered jewellery in exchange for cash.

Police said the motorist refused and drove away.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Inspector Dan Russell, of Rother’s Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “If you spot anyone acting suspiciously by the roadside, please ring us immediately.

“If possible take down the registration number and any other details that might help identify the vehicle or the person driving it.

“If you suspect a request for help isn’t genuine, don’t be afraid to refuse. And if you’ve been a victim, please come forward with any information you may have.”

Ongoing incidents should be reported by dialling 999. Otherwise people are asked to email [email protected] or phone 101 with details of any similar incidents.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Alternatively they can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Don’t miss out on all the latest breaking news where you live.

Here are four ways you can be sure you’ll be amongst the first to know what’s going on.

1) Make our website your homepage

2) Like our Facebook page

3) Follow us on Twitter

4) Register with us by clicking on ‘sign in’ (top right corner). You can then receive our daily newsletter AND add your point of view to stories that you read here.

And do share with your family and friends - so they don’t miss out!

Always the first with your local news.

Be part of it.