Elderly targeted in $250k scams

Photo / File

Up to $250,000 has been taken from elderly Ngongotaha residents in a series of what have been described as scams, but now the community is fighting back.

According to Age Concern Rotorua six or seven families in Ngongotaha have been affected after elderly family members were targeted by a group of people living in the community who took advantage of their kind and giving natures.

In one case a family told Age Concern more than $100,000 had been given to the group by one elderly person sucked in by their "sob story".

Age Concern elder abuse and neglect prevention co-ordinator Hillary Thole said the families had been targeted by the same people who said they needed money for sick relatives, travel, unpaid bills or emergencies.

"Up to a quarter of a million dollars has been scammed just in Ngongotaha."

Mrs Thole said the problem had got so bad, she had to try to do something about it.

The organisation, along with Rotorua police and Neighbourhood Support, is holding a public meeting in Ngongotaha next week to highlight the problem and help those affected.

Mrs Thole said she and the police were aware of a group of five Ngongotaha people who had been convincing elderly people to part with their money.

She said the problem had been going on for at least two years and the police were powerless to prosecute as the money was given willingly.

"They try the softly, softly approach, will knock on your door, tell you a sob story and once they have that foot in the door they start going for the money.

"They are pulling on people's heart-strings and we've got to do something to stop it. They are targeting vulnerable people."

Mrs Thole said she was sure the problem was not exclusive to Ngongotaha so was keen to run similar presentations in other parts of the city.

"We are telling people if they get approached to say they need to consult with other family members and they will get back to them. Ask for a name and contact number.

"It seems these people are very wise about how to do this and get away with it so we want to promote education and family involvement.

"What worries me is that when they start saying no there will be threats of violence and intimidation.

"We want consequences - we want to name and shame these people," Mrs Thole said.

Age Concern Rotorua president Shirley Hatch said not being able to prosecute was a real problem. "Which means there is no redress for the families.

"It's a despicable trick and has to be stopped," she said.

Rotorua police Senior Sergeant Denton Grimes said police were aware of the "scams" and were working with families affected to prevent further money being given willingly to those responsible.

"Rotorua police acknowledge the families are frustrated and disappointed the police are unable to prosecute, but the police are proactively working with Age Concern and Neighbourhood Support in providing advice and information for the residents," Mr Grimes said.

"Some helpful tips - if it sounds too good, it most probably is. Don't be pressured to do anything. Never give out your personal information to someone you don't know or trust and check it out first."

• "Being Scam Savvy - Break the silence, speak up and don't become a victim." A presentation by Age Concern, Rotorua police and Neighbourhood Support at St Barnabas' Church Hall, Ngongotaha from 10.30am Tuesday October 14. Everyone is welcome. For details call Hillary at Age Concern on (07) 347 1539.