Met Police smash courier fraud gangs in London with 18 arrests and over £250,000 cash seized in a major blitz.
Since launching the crackdown in February 2025, the Met has slashed courier fraud reports by 46%. The scam mainly targets the elderly and vulnerable, leaving them robbed of their savings and peace of mind.
What’s Courier Fraud?
Scammers pose as police officers or bank staff, duping victims into handing over cash, bank cards, or making expensive purchases to “secure” their funds. They then send a “courier” to collect the loot. Shockingly, over 80% of victims are aged 65+, with the oldest at 101.
Big Busts and Major Hauls
- £250,000+ in cash seized
- Hundreds of stolen bank cards and phones recovered
- 18 suspects nabbed across London boroughs
- Over 100 victim support visits completed
- 115,000 fraud awareness leaflets handed out
- 90 visits to banks, jewellers, and currency exchanges
Some suspects now face charges including fraud and concealing criminal property. Police uncovered a multi-million-pound crime ring linked to 70+ fraud reports involving luxury shopping sprees on stolen cards.
Police Speak Out
Detective Supt Kerry Wood, head of the Met’s Economic Crime Unit, said:
“This devastating crime robs vulnerable people of their savings, pensions, and sense of safety. We’ve taken firm action and remain committed to dismantling these organised fraud gangs.”
Det Ch Insp Alexander Eristavi, City of London Police, added:
“Collaborative policing has delivered fantastic results. We aim to keep up the momentum to protect the public.”
Real-Life Scams Exposed
In one probe, two crooks impersonated bank officials, collecting dozens of bank cards from vulnerable victims—linked to 60 separate reports. Another ring used stolen cards to buy high-end goods across London, leading to seven charges.
How to Guard Against Courier Fraud
- Be wary of unsolicited calls claiming to be from your bank or police.
- Never share your PIN or personal details.
- Don’t hand over money, bank cards, or buy items after such calls.
- Hang up and call back on a different line or wait a minute before redialling.
- Check with family or friends before taking action.
For advice, visit the Met Police Courier Fraud page or read The Little Book of Big Scams.
Been Scammed? Report It
- Report to Action Fraud at www.actionfraud.police.uk
- Call 0300 123 2040
- Contact your bank immediately
