Police in New South Wales have made a significant breakthrough in a disturbing series of scams that specifically targeted elderly women in shopping centre car parks across multiple regions, including the Illawarra.
Modus Operandi of the Scam
Two men, aged 37 and 57, were arrested on January 7, 2026, at a service station in Glenthorne, near Taree. They are accused of working together to approach elderly women, primarily in shopping centre car parks, and claiming there was a problem with their vehicle.
Police allege the men would convince the victim to raise the bonnet of their car for an inspection. While the victim was distracted by one man looking at the engine, a second man would allegedly steal valuable items like wallets, purses, cash, and bank cards from inside the vehicle.
State-Wide Crime Spree and Arrest
The criminal activity was not isolated. Reports of identical scams emerged from shopping centre car parks in Sydney, Newcastle, Forster, and Wagga Wagga between January 3 and 7, 2026. In response, NSW Police established Strike Force Pitstop to investigate, which is currently looking into 18 reported incidents.
Following their arrest, a search of the men and their vehicle allegedly uncovered a trove of evidence. Police seized vehicle wires, international passports, mobile phones, a Toughbook laptop, approximately $6000 in cash, and several receipts for money transfers. Their vehicle was taken for forensic examination.
Charges Laid and Investigation Continues
Both arrested men have been charged with a staggering 72 offences each. The charges relate to alleged fraud, theft, and entering a vehicle without consent. They were refused bail and were scheduled to appear in a bail division court on Thursday, January 8, 2026.
Despite the arrests, the investigation is ongoing. Police have released CCTV images of two other men they wish to speak to in connection with the scams. One man is described as Caucasian, solidly built, and in his 40s, seen wearing a white and black chequered long-sleeved shirt and black shorts. The second man is also Caucasian with a medium build, in his 40s, and was captured wearing a white-sleeved shirt, black shorts, and a blue face mask.
Authorities are urging anyone who recognises these men or has any information about the incidents to contact Crime Stoppers immediately on 1800 333 000.
