A callous thief exploited a blind Pendlebury pensioner by snatching more than £100 from his wallet when the vulnerable man offered up £5 because he thought he was collecting for charity this week.
The criminal was invited into the 92-year-old victim’s home shortly after 1pm, having said that he was raising money for ‘people who are worse off’.
The victim generously offered £5, but the con-man said ‘I want more than that’ and stole the contents of the vulnerable pensioner’s wallet including cash and a bank card.
PC Leanne Linehan of Greater Manchester Police said: “You can’t get much lower than stealing from an elderly blind man who, in good faith, has welcomed you into his home and is prepared to donate money to those less fortunate.
“The act is despicable and the premise on which the offender gained access to the house equally so.
“I would encourage anyone who thinks they recognise the offender to call us before he can target any more vulnerable members of our community.”
PC Linehan also warned of the dangers of cold callers, and the need to ensure that they are genuine and have authentic identification before admitting them into a home.
GMP are in the process of clamping down on criminals over the festive period, having launched Operation Bauble this morning to target all types of crime throughout the area.
Anyone with information should contact police on 0161 856 5260/5360 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
