Police in New South Wales have charged two men and are searching for two others following a series of brazen robberies targeting elderly drivers at shopping centre car parks across the state.
How the Distraction Scam Operated
According to investigators, the scam involved a two-person team. A man would approach an elderly victim, usually a woman, and claim there was a problem with their vehicle. He would then convince the driver to raise the bonnet to inspect the alleged issue.
While the victim was distracted with the bonnet up, a second man would allegedly steal valuable items from inside the unattended car. Stolen goods included wallets, purses, cash, and bank cards.
State-Wide Investigation Leads to Arrests
The North West Region police established Strike Force Pitstop to investigate 18 linked incidents reported at locations including Newcastle, Forster, Wagga Wagga, and several Sydney suburbs.
Following extensive inquiries, officers arrested two men – aged 37 and 57 – at a service station on Manning River Drive in Glenthorne around 12:20 pm on Wednesday, January 7, 2026.
During a search, police allegedly seized a significant haul of evidence, including:
- Vehicle wires
- International passports
- Mobile phones and a Toughbook laptop
- $6000 in cash
- Receipts for money transfers
The men's vehicle was taken for forensic examination. Both were taken to Taree police station and charged with a staggering 72 offences each, relating to fraud, theft, and entering a vehicle without consent.
Police will allege the pair worked together to steal from multiple elderly female victims in shopping centre car parks between Saturday, January 3, and Wednesday, January 7, 2026. Both were refused bail and were scheduled to appear before Bail Division Court 1 on Thursday, January 8.
Public Appeal to Identify Persons of Interest
As investigations under Strike Force Pitstop continue, police have released CCTV images and descriptions of two other men they urgently wish to speak with in connection to the scam.
The first man is described as Caucasian, in his 40s, with a solid build. He was seen wearing a white and black checkered long-sleeve shirt, black shorts, sunglasses, and a black hat with a white graphic on the front.
The second man is also described as Caucasian, in his 40s, with a medium build. He was depicted wearing a white short-sleeve shirt, black shorts, black shoes with white soles, a blue face mask, and a black hat with a white graphic.
NSW Police are urging anyone who recognises these men or has any information that could assist the investigation to contact Crime Stoppers immediately on 1800 333 000 or via the online portal. The public is reminded to remain vigilant in car parks and to secure their vehicles, even when stepping away for a moment.
