Original Source: actu17.fr
In a harrowing incident on Wednesday morning, a 77-year-old woman in Paris’ VIe arrondissement was violently attacked in her home. Two men posing as bank employees gained access under false pretenses, leading to a significant robbery that could amount to over €100,000. The victim was manipulated through a phone call the previous evening, informed of a needed card replacement, and unsuspectingly surrendered her card to a woman who visited her home.
On Wednesday, shortly after 9 AM, the doorbell rang, and the unsuspecting elderly woman found herself face-to-face with two masked intruders brandishing an envelope. The assailants forced their way inside, shoving her aside before binding and gagging her. They threatened her with a knife, demanding to know where her safe was located, and ransacked her home, discovering nearly €50,000 in cash hidden in the bathroom.
The thieves also seized valuable jewelry estimated at another €50,000 as well as the victim’s phone before fleeing the scene. After managing to escape her bonds, the traumatized woman sought refuge in a neighbor’s apartment, where help was quickly summoned. Authorities arrived soon after, and an investigation has been launched by the 3rd District of Judicial Police (DPJ), seeking leads on the assailants’ whereabouts.
The crime reflects a disturbing trend of elderly individuals being targeted for their savings and valuables by sophisticated scammers who exploit their trust and vulnerability. Such incidents typically involve elaborate ruses where criminals impersonate authority figures, ultimately leading to emotional and physical trauma for the victims. In this particular case, the preliminary strategy combined manipulation with aggression, showcasing a perilous blend of deceit and force.
This incident serves as a pressing reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by the elderly in their own homes. It highlights the need for increased awareness and protective measures against targeted scams that prey on trust. The investigation aims to apprehend the perpetrators and shed light on this alarming trend, reinforcing the importance of community vigilance and safety.
