Two men have been arrested by West Midlands Police's economic crime unit in connection with a courier fraud investigation targeting elderly and vulnerable people in Birmingham. The men, aged 40 and 35, were detained in the Stechford and Yardley areas on suspicion of fraud.
Since April this year, nine victims in the Birmingham area have been targeted by individuals posing as police officers. The fraudsters convince victims that their bank accounts are at risk of fraud and instruct them to leave their bank cards in an envelope outside their homes for a supposed 'police' collection as part of an investigation.
Over £100,000 Stolen in Courier Fraud Scheme
The bank cards are subsequently used to make cash withdrawals, with the total amount stolen so far exceeding £100,000. The arrests were made as part of an ongoing investigation into these incidents, which have affected residents across Birmingham.
West Midlands Police have highlighted the growing prevalence of courier fraud, a crime type where criminals impersonate officials to deceive victims into handing over financial items. The force has urged the public to remain vigilant against such tactics.
Police Issue Advice to Protect Residents
West Midlands Police have listed a number of ways in which the public can tackle courier fraud. If someone knocks at your front door claiming to be from a company, first check their ID. If you’re not happy, don’t let them in.
Never call the phone number on a salesperson's ID card to check them out. Instead, ask them to wait outside, shut the door, and find the company number on the internet. If they’re genuine, they’ll understand.
Key Warning Signs and What to Do
Banks and the police will never call you to verify your PIN. They won’t ask you to withdraw money or buy or send items on their behalf for investigations. Hang up if you get a call like this.
Never transfer money or make purchases on behalf of someone you don’t know. And if it's an emergency, call the police on 999.
The investigation remains ongoing, and West Midlands Police continue to encourage anyone who believes they may have been a victim of courier fraud to report it to the authorities.
