Cheshire Records One of the Highest Losses from Courier Fraud Scams

Cheshire Police has reported an alarming trend of courier fraud cases in the county, with 17 incidents resulting in a total loss of £1.78 million in the last financial year. This significant loss has made Cheshire one of the areas most affected by this type of scam, with the force's Detective Sergeant Christopher Jacques emphasizing the importance of raising awareness among the public, particularly vulnerable or elderly individuals.

Key Takeaways:

• Cheshire Police reported 17 incidents of courier fraud in the last financial year, with a total loss of £1.78 million, making it one of the highest losses in the country.
• The scam typically involves victims being contacted by criminals posing as police officers or bank staff, who persuade them to hand over money, valuables, or sensitive banking information.
• In the past 12 months, Cheshire Police has seen some promising results, with at least six arrests for courier fraud in the county.
• A recent case saw a man sentenced to 33 months in prison for multiple courier fraud offences, including one in Runcorn.
• The public is urged to remain vigilant, particularly when receiving unsolicited phone calls or visits, and to report any suspicious activity to Cheshire Police on 101 or online.
• The force is supporting a national campaign to raise awareness of courier fraud and is reminding the public that banks and police will never ask them to verify their details or hand over cards or cash.

Statistics:

• 17 incidents of courier fraud reported in Cheshire in the last financial year.
• Total loss due to courier fraud in Cheshire: £1.78 million.
• At least six arrests for courier fraud in Cheshire in the past 12 months.
• 33 months: the prison sentence for a man convicted of multiple courier fraud offences.

Sources:

• Cheshire Police press release.