Elderly woman "hounded" into handing over thousands of pounds from Aberdeen ATM

A pensioner was forced to hand over a four-figure sum of money by a woman over several weeks in Aberdeen.

Officers say they’re treating the incident in the Granite City as “extortion.”

The elderly woman was approached on several occasions between Wednesday June 17 and Tuesday July 7 at the junction of Summerfield Terrace and King Street in Aberdeen city centre.

During this time, police say the 78-year-old was “hounded” into withdrawing cash from an ATM in a premises at the junction of Urquhart Road and King Street.

It is believed the money eventually ran up to a mid-four-figure sum.

The female suspect is described as white, in her late 20s, gaunt with long brown hair sometimes worn in a ponytail. She wore casual clothing.

Police are now appealing for information on the suspect or if others have similarly been approached.

Constable Louise Calder said: “This has been a traumatising experience for the elderly woman, who was subjected to ongoing harassment from the suspect.

“She is being supported by her family and our officers.

“I am appealing to anyone who was in the King Street area between these dates and witnessed an elderly woman being approached by or withdrawing money whilst next to a woman matching the suspect's description to get in touch.

“Have you been approached by a woman in the city centre matching this description asking for money? If so, we would also like to hear from you.”

She added: “We want to make sure that the people in our communities are kept safe and informed and I would urge you to speak to elderly or vulnerable family and friends to advise them of these types of incidents and reduce the likelihood of them becoming a victim.

“Anyone with information in connection with this is asked to contact police on 101.

“Alternatively, if you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

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