Four arrested in connection with courier fraud offences

Officers from the London Proactive Economic Crime Team (PECT) have made four arrests as part of an investigation into an organised crime network targeting elderly and vulnerable victims through courier fraud.

The group used increasingly sophisticated technology to facilitate their criminal activity, while posing as banking officials to persuade victims to hand over bank cards to London‑based ‘safe house’ locations. The cards were then collected and used to withdraw funds.

A series of warrants were executed across north London on Tuesday, 28 April, resulting in the arrests of four men, aged in their 20s and 30s, on suspicion of fraud by false representation. All have since been released on police bail pending further enquiries.

These arrests represent early positive outcomes following the launch of the London Proactive Economic Crime Team - a new specialist capability bringing together officers from the City of London Police and the Metropolitan Police Service to tackle fraud across the capital.

The team focuses on precision‑led, intelligence‑driven policing and partnership working, designed to build long‑term capability and coordination to stay ahead of organised fraud networks and better protect Londoners from harm.

Detective Chief Inspector Andy Thomas, Head of the London Proactive Economic Crime Team, said:

“The formation of the London Proactive Economic Crime Team marks an important step forward in how fraud is tackled across London. Fraud now accounts for nearly half of all crime nationally, and offenders continue to evolve their methods at pace.

“By bringing together expertise and resources from across the City of London Police and the Metropolitan Police Service, we are better placed to deliver coordinated, intelligence‑led activity that disrupts offenders earlier and more effectively.

“These early results demonstrate both the value and necessity of this approach. Tackling fraud at scale requires collaboration, adaptability and focus and this team is a clear example of how a joined‑up response can better protect the public and reduce harm.”

If you receive an unexpected call asking for your bank details or cards, stop! and think - your bank will never ask you to send these items or to transfer funds.

How to protect yourself from courier fraud:

Transferring money: Your bank or the police will never ask you to transfer money to a safe account.

Couriers: Your bank or the police will never send a courier to your home to collect bank cards, cash or other valuables.

Contacting your bank: Only contact your bank or an organisation directly using a known email or phone number, such as the one on your bank statements or bank card.

What to do if you are a victim of courier fraud:

If you have made a payment: Inform your bank as soon as possible, they can help you prevent any further losses. Monitor your bank statements regularly for any unusual activity.

Identity theft: If you have shared personal or financial information, and suspect your identity may have been stolen, you can check your credit file quickly and easily online. You should do this every few months anyway, using a reputable service provider and follow up on any unexpected or suspicious results. You can also sign up for Cifas services which can help to protect you against fraud.

You could be targeted again: Fraudsters sometimes re-establish contact with previous victims claiming that they can help them recover lost money, this is just a secondary scam. Hang up on any callers that claim they can get your money back for you.

If you think you have been a victim of fraud contact Report Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or via the website: UK's Home for Reporting Cyber Crime & Fraud - Report Fraud