variation on a scam

';My neighbour  told me that she was asked by a chap selling the Big Issue, outside the  local Tesco on Green Lanes, near the, almost built, huge police  hub custody suite/police station, if she would buy 'gold ring' . The chap  keeps a seat there ( wooden block,even when he is not there) (English not so good) She told him that it was probably someone's wedding ring and that it would have been stolen.  He wanted money, but she said she would take it to the police station, which she did.   Next morning, she sees him across the road and he shouts that he wants money for the ring.  She says police want to see him. Bearing in mind that she had given him money on occasions and had given him £10 at Christmas.  (No comments please about gullibility, not giving to beggars etc. That cuts out most of comments!).  Police have been duly informed but apparently need evidence. 

Well, if it isn't a beggar, it's the banks!