Above and below: some of the images released by the police

SCAMMERS have stolen more than £140,000 of jewellery and cash from Chinese residents in a series of coordinated blackmail attacks.

Victims were told that relatives would be killed if they did not hand over money to the swindlers.
Detectives this week released a string of photographs of women they want to speak to in relation to their investigation.

Eight women are being sought for questioning as police probe incidents dating back to January.

There have been at least 16 victims identified ­so far, five of whom were targeted in Islington around Chapel Market and Liverpool Road.

More people may have been affected.

Suspects have used a consistent method: they stop victims and ask if they know a “healer” before demanding that they withdraw large quantities of money from nearby cash machines.

The victims were told that if they refused, their family members would “mysteriously” get hurt in the coming days.

Police estimate that victims have collectively lost a total of £141,500 to the blackmail squad. Of this total, £78,000 was in cash and £63,500 in jewellery was stolen.

Investigation lead Detective Constable Paulo Roberts said: “These incidents left the victims incredibly shaken and we know it has caused huge concern within the Chinese community.”

DC Roberts said the suspected fraudsters typically operate in groups of three.

The first initiates contact with the victim, saying they are looking for a healer.

Then they are joined by two accomplices who “coincidentally” pass by and join the conversation.

One pretends to know a healer, and the other claims to be a relative of the non-existent healer, usually a daughter, daughter-in-law or granddaughter.

Outnumbering the victim, the suspects then demand money.

Police have liaised with the Islington Chinese Association, based in Archway, to raise awareness of these incidents with the Chinese community, including through a police presentation about the pattern of the crimes.

Both the Islington Chinese Association and the London Chinese Community Centre near Leicester Square told the Tribune that they have put up posters to warn their members.

DC Roberts added: “I want to assure local people that extensive enquiries have been conducted, and our work is still ongoing. The images we have are good quality and I am sure there is someone out there who will recognise these individuals.”

Some photos of the suspects that have been released by police show the women walking in Romford, east London, while others are pictured in a tube station or speaking on the phone.

Anyone with infor­mation should dial 101. To remain anonymous call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.