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CCTV released after 90-year-old widow loses £500 in Folkestone distraction theft

CCTV images of two men have been released after a 90-year-old widow lost £500 in a cruel distraction theft.

Maria Lenko - who is almost completely blind - says she was left shocked following the “clever” con in Folkestone town centre.

Maria Lenko was tricked out of £500 in a cruel theft in Folkestone town centre
Maria Lenko was tricked out of £500 in a cruel theft in Folkestone town centre

Between midday and 1pm on January 9, she withdrew the cash from the Nationwide branch in Sandgate Road and placed it in a zipped-up pouch in her trolley.

As she left the bank she crossed the street and went into WH Smith, where she heard two male voices behind her that she recognised from being in Nationwide with her just moments before.

It was as she exited the shop that one of the men approached her and claimed she had dropped some coins on the ground.

Mrs Lenko only discovered the money - which she withdrew to cover household expenses - was missing after returning home from lunch with friends.

She previously told KentOnline: “I felt so silly when I realised. It was so obvious to me then that they had tricked me.

CCTV images of two men have been released after a 90-year-old widow lost £500 in a cruel distraction theft in Folkestone
CCTV images of two men have been released after a 90-year-old widow lost £500 in a cruel distraction theft in Folkestone

"I’m almost completely blind and always wear a badge that says I’m visually impaired, and I had two more badges on my trolley.

“I think that, and my age, made me an easy target."

After her carer reported the incident to police Mrs Lenko was told in a letter - understood to have been sent prematurely - that no further action would be taken.

But now, the force has confirmed it is investigating, and released CCTV images of two men they wish to speak with as part of their inquiries.

Police believe the men could have information to assist enquiries regarding the reported Folkestone theft. Picture: Kent Police
Police believe the men could have information to assist enquiries regarding the reported Folkestone theft. Picture: Kent Police

The Folkestone resident of 10 years added: “I just want to warn people.

“These men knew I had taken out a substantial sum of money.

“It was clever, really. I think they could do it to anyone, but they clearly saw I was vulnerable.

“It’s a shock, yes. It makes you shake slightly.

“But I was brought up in the war, so you learn to get on with things.”

Anyone who recognises the people pictured, or has information about the theft, should call 01843 222289 quoting 46/5424/25.

You can also report information to Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555111 or via www.crimestoppers-uk.org.

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