Thieves are targeting elderly members of the Chinese community by using a “blessed water” scam to steal money and belongings, Chicago police warned.
In each incident, the victims approached by a group of Asian females and sold “blessed water,” police said. The scams — five of which have happened since May — have taken place in several neighborhoods including Chinatown, Armour Square, and Bridgeport, police said.
The thieves talk to victims about finding a doctor before convincing them to participate in a cleansing or blessing ceremony, officials said. During the ceremony, victims are told to place their money and belongings in a bag for blessing, which they are then instructed not to open for several days nor tell family members about the ceremony.
Following the ceremony, victims find that everything in the bag was stolen, police said.
At least five scams have so far been reported in May and August:
- 800 block of South Park Terrace around 11 a.m. Aug. 27 in Printer’s Row.
- 2400 block of South Wallace Avenue around 11 a.m. Aug. 26 in Bridgeport.
- 2700 block of South Wells Street around 3 p.m. Aug. 23 in Armour Square.
- 2800 block of South Archer Avenue around 11 a.m. Aug. 14 in Bridgeport.
- 2200 block of South Wentworth Avenue around 10:55 a.m. May 18 in Chinatown.
The thieves are described as two or three Asian women between 30 and 40 years old, officials said.
Police encourage community members to stay calm if approached by an assailant and take note of any unique characteristics of the thieves.
Anyone with information should contact financial crimes unit Detective J. Sivicek, 312-746-9661.