Trio of fake 'spiritual healers' hunted by police after pensioner was conned out of a large amount of money and jewels for a ritual supposed to keep her and her family safe

A gang of fake 'spiritual healers' who conned a pensioner out of a 'significant' amount of cash and jewellery to stage a ritual to 'keep her family safe' are being hunted by cops.

The three female charlatans duped the 73-year-old woman after meeting her in Newport city centre, in south Wales, police have said. 

They reportedly offered to carry out the spiritual ritual, telling their worried victim it would protect her family. 

All believed to be of Chinese descent, and speaking Cantonese, the alleged fraudsters then plundered the pensioner's bank account and made off with her prized possessions. 

Officers have now launched a manhunt for the crooks and have released CCTV footage of one of the suspects.

The video shows a woman walking into a Sainsbury's shop, carrying a pink bag and wearing a dark jacket. 

The alleged fraudster is caught flashing a smile while at the till of the retailer. Gwent Police is now seeking to identify her as part of their investigation.  

Describing the incident, a spokesman for the force said: 'Officers investigating report of fraud are trying to identify this woman (pictured) who may be able to help with enquires.

'We received a report of fraud after three unknown women have reportedly taken a significant amount of money and jewellery in exchange for organising a spiritual ritual.

'The three women are described as having short black hair, aged between 30 and 50 with the ability to speak Cantonese.

'The three women allegedly befriended a 73-year-old woman while in Newport city centre and offered to organise the ritual to help the victim and keep her family safe in exchange for money.

'Officers have carried out various enquiries and are now asking for help to identify this woman who was seen in the area and may be able to help.'

Anyone with information or who recognise the wanted woman are urged to call police on 101 quoting  reference 2400168940.

MailOnline has approached Gwent Police for further comment.