Full Breakdown
NSW Police Charge Two Men in Elderly Car Park Scam
1/8/2026, 12:17:18 PM
Overview of the Scam
Two men, aged 37 and 57, have been charged with orchestrating a scam that targeted elderly women in shopping centre car parks across New South Wales (NSW). The alleged scheme involved the men approaching victims under the pretense of identifying issues with their vehicles, which led to thefts totaling over $50,000 from 18 women between January 3 and January 7, 2026.
Modus Operandi
According to NSW police, the scam operated by one man claiming to be a mechanic and encouraging the victim to open the car bonnet for inspection. While the victim was distracted, the accomplice would allegedly steal items such as wallets, purses, cash, and cards from inside the vehicle. The incidents were reported in various locations, including Newcastle, Wagga Wagga, and several Sydney suburbs, with a notable concentration in the Riverina region.
Key Incidents and Victims
Police reported that the elderly residents in the Riverina area were particularly targeted, with seven incidents recorded in towns such as Wagga Wagga, Tumut, Goulburn, and Yass. One victim, Libby Taylor, recounted her experience of being approached at a Lake Macquarie shopping centre. After being told there were wires hanging from her car, she opened the bonnet, only to discover later that her wallet had been stolen and used for unauthorized transactions totaling over $14,000 in Dubai.
Arrest and Charges
The two men were arrested on January 7 at a service station in Glenthorne, near Taree. During the arrest, police seized $6,000 in cash, international passports, mobile phones, a Toughbook laptop, and receipts for money transfers. Each man has been charged with 72 offenses, including fraud, theft, and entering a vehicle without consent. They have been refused bail and are scheduled to appear in court.
Official Statements
NSW Police Assistant Commissioner Stacey Maloney emphasized the deceptive nature of the scam, stating that the offenders presented themselves as good Samaritans. Superintendent Andrew Spliet of the Riverina Police District urged community vigilance, noting that regional residents are often obliging and may be more susceptible to such scams.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics have expressed concern over the targeting of vulnerable populations, particularly the elderly, and the need for increased awareness and preventive measures in community settings. Victim Libby Taylor highlighted her disbelief at falling for the scam, despite her background in IT and cybersecurity, stating, “It can happen to anybody.”
Ongoing Investigations
As investigations continue under Strike Force Pitstop, police are seeking information on two additional men who may be connected to the scam. Descriptions of these individuals have been released to the public, and authorities are encouraging anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers.
Verbatim Quotes
- “They approached them on the driver’s side or at the front of the vehicle and they indicate some sort of issue with the front of the car,” — Stacey Maloney, NSW Police Assistant Commissioner
- “Unfortunately, people out there will try and take advantage of the good nature of our community.” — Andrew Spliet, Superintendent, Riverina Police District
- “I'm annoyed with myself for falling victim to this — I really never thought that I would be a victim of a scam, given my education and my background.” — Libby Taylor, Victim
This incident underscores the importance of community awareness and vigilance in preventing scams that exploit the vulnerable.
