Appeal for information following theft of gold jewellery

Detectives are investigating a series of incidents where a woman handed over gold jewellery to a man – who did not return it.

The victim, in her 60s, met the man at her home in the New Parks area on 5 June after he told her that he was able to pray on and bless various items she owned.

The victim arranged to meet the man again, outside Leicester railway station, on 9 June to exchange money. However, another man met her in his place. She handed over a significant quantity of money, which he told her he would pray on but was not returned.

On 15 June, the victim met the man in Victoria Park, where she handed over a box of jewellery with the intention it would be prayed on or blessed. However, when the victim opened the box following its return, no jewellery was inside.

The final meeting also took place in Victoria Park on 24 June, where more cash was handed over. However, when they met for the money to be returned, the package – which was not opened while they were together – was found to contain notebooks instead. The victim contacted police to report the incidents on 26 June.

Since they occurred, significant enquiries have been undertaken by East Leicester CID to try and establish the man’s identity but have been unsuccessful.

Detective Constable Tamsin Ball, the investigating officer, said: “The victim said she only knows the man as Veer and that he’s Asian, around 5ft 10ins tall and of a medium build.

“She believes he’s around 35 years old and has a large skin tag on his face, close to his eye.

“I’m concerned this man may be targeting other people in Leicester and can persuade them to hand over jewellery and money. There are potentially others who have fallen victim to his scam.

“I’m appealing for anyone who believes they have come into contact with him or been approached by someone offering to do something similar, to come forward. Any information you’re able to provide – no matter how insignificant you think it is – could help.

Please visit https://www.leics.police.uk/ro/report/ocr/af/how-to-report-a-crime/  and quote reference 23*392285

Alternatively call 101.