A slick purse-snatcher who preyed on cash machine users across Medway has been locked up for nearly three years.
Crime Spree Hits ATM Users in Strood and Chatham
Job Khoeseb, 28, went on a ruthless rampage for a month between June and July 2025. He targeted seven unsuspecting people withdrawing cash at ATMs in Strood and Chatham.
His slick trick? An accomplice snatched victims’ cash while Khoeseb distracted them by pretending their card was swallowed by the machine. Sometimes, he even escorted victims into banks, claiming their cards were stuck inside—giving his partner the perfect opportunity to swipe cash and steal cards unnoticed.
£2,150 Stolen from Vulnerable Victims
The duo emptied £2,150 in just 31 days. Several victims were elderly, with the oldest in his late 80s.
Police spotted a pattern and tracked three suspicious vehicles near the crime scenes.
Police Nab Khoeseb in Gravesend Sting
On 10 July, officers stopped a car linked to the thefts on Court Road, Orpington. Inside was Khoeseb, from Barking, along with medical masks matching those used in the scams.
His home search uncovered keys to another getaway vehicle.
Khoeseb was first charged with conspiring to steal, then hit with six counts of theft and one attempted theft.
Judge Slams Khoeseb with Nearly 3 Years Behind Bars
At Maidstone Crown Court on 6 January 2026, Khoeseb pleaded guilty. By 23 January, he was sentenced to two years and nine months in prison.
Detective Constable Hollie McBride said: “Khoeseb showed a blatant disregard for his victims, leaving them out of pocket and wary of the public. “We praise the victims for coming forward, which helped us nab Khoeseb and see justice done. “People should feel safe withdrawing money. Staying alert to distraction thefts is key to stopping criminals like Khoeseb in their tracks.”
