Two Charged Following Carpark Scam – Police Seek Two Others
Two men have been charged following a police investigation into a distraction scam targeting elderly drivers in shopping centre carparks, with confirmed incidents occurring in Berowra Heights, Beecroft, and Pennant Hills.
Detectives from the North West Region established Strike Force Pitstop to investigate reports of elderly women being targeted in carparks across NSW. Police allege the men worked together to steal from victims between Saturday 3 January 2026 and Wednesday 7 January 2026.
Local Incidents: Police have identified that shopping centre carparks in the Hornsby Local Government Area were specifically targeted during this spree. Residents in the following suburbs are urged to be vigilant:
- Berowra Heights
- Beecroft
- Pennant Hills
The Scam: Police allege the two men utilized a distraction technique to target elderly female victims. One man would approach the victim, claiming there was a mechanical issue with their vehicle and asking them to open the bonnet for inspection.
While the victim was distracted at the front of the vehicle, the second man allegedly stole personal items—including wallets, purses, cash, and cards—from inside the car.
The Arrests: Following extensive inquiries, officers arrested two men, aged 37 and 57, at a service station in Glenthorne about 12.20pm yesterday (Wednesday 7 January 2026).
During a search, police seized vehicle wires, international passports, mobile phones, a laptop, $6000 in cash, and money transfer receipts. Both men were taken to Taree Police Station and charged with 72 offences each, including fraud, theft, and entering a vehicle without consent. They were refused bail to appear before court today.
Police Appeal
Two Additional Men Sought: As investigations continue, police have released vision of two other men they believe can assist with their inquiries. Police are urging residents to look at the footage and descriptions closely:
- Male 1: Caucasian appearance, aged in his 40s, solid build. He is depicted wearing a white and black checkered long-sleeve shirt, black shorts, sunglasses, and a black hat with a white graphic on the front.
- Male 2: Caucasian appearance, aged in his 40s, medium build. He is depicted wearing a white long-sleeve shirt, black shorts, black shoes with white soles, a blue face mask, and a black hat with a white graphic on the front.
Community Warning
Police are urging the local community to be aware of this scam. If anyone approaches you in a carpark claiming your vehicle has a mechanical fault, do not leave your valuables unattended or unlocked in the car.
Anyone who recognises the two men in the released vision or has information about the incidents in Berowra Heights, Beecroft, or Pennant Hills is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
