In a series of shocking crimes across the North East, London, and Merseyside, two Colombian men who preyed on elderly and disabled bank customers have been sentenced to prison.
Their methodical approach left victims not only out of pocket but also traumatized, highlighting the dangers of sophisticated criminal gangs operating in public spaces.
How the Gang Operated
Armet Cortes, 55, and Willmer Guzman, 63, were part of a coordinated team that carefully selected their targets.
Once a victim was identified—usually someone elderly, disabled, or otherwise vulnerable—the thieves used subtle signals to communicate among themselves before executing the theft.
Their tactics were deceptively simple yet highly effective: one would distract the victim by dropping coins or asking questions, while another quietly grabbed the freshly withdrawn cash.
Prosecutor Jessica Slaughter described the scheme as “an organised and systematic series of offending” over seven months, targeting 14 victims and netting more than £63,000.
Disturbing Examples of the Thefts
The court heard harrowing stories of the gang’s audacity.
In one case, they surrounded a 71-year-old woman and her husband in Sunderland, stealing £3,000 while the couple struggled to get into their car.
The husband, who used a walking stick, tried to fend them off, but the criminals’ confusion tactics succeeded.
The largest sum stolen from a single victim reached £15,000, and the court noted that the gang deliberately selected those unlikely to resist.
Judge Andrew Smith remarked that the offences “involved targeting of often and usually vulnerable victims” and commended the thieves’ “high degree of professionalism” in executing their crimes.
Sentencing and Deportation
As Colombian nationals with no fixed UK address, they also face automatic deportation following their prison terms.
Despite having no prior UK convictions, Cortes and Guzman admitted they were recruited by strangers to join the criminal operation.
The judge highlighted their skill in using silent gestures and signs to coordinate actions in the banking halls.
Police Response and Public Safety
Detective Constable Andy Thompson of the North East Regional Crime Unit described the crimes as “incredibly traumatic” for victims, leaving both financial and psychological scars.
He emphasized the need for public vigilance and encouraged anyone who has been a victim or noticed suspicious activity to report it immediately.
Detective Inspector Shaun Fordy added that the sentencing marked another success for Operation Sentinel, a North East initiative aimed at tackling serious and organised crime.
“Community intelligence is vital,” he said. “Our united police response continues to stamp out criminal gangs who exploit the vulnerable.”