Courier Fraud Conning Pensioners Out of £70k in Nottinghamshire
Fraudsters posing as police officers are tricking elderly victims into handing over thousands of pounds in a chilling scam called ‘Courier Fraud’. Victims are told their bank is issuing fake notes and urged to withdraw cash for undercover police to inspect.
But the ‘police courier’ who collects the money is actually a thief who vanishes with the cash, leaving victims devastated.
34 Attempts, £72,900 Lost – Nottinghamshire Police Sound Alarm
Nottinghamshire Police recorded 34 courier fraud attempts in just two weeks this January. Six victims lost a staggering total of £72,900.
Retired Radcliffe-on-Trent resident Steve Westby narrowly escaped, but he’s horrified by the scam’s reach. “When you think it’s a police officer on the phone, you immediately trust them,” he said. “It’s an ingenious ruse. I can see why so many people are duped by it.”
Heartbreaking Loss for Couple in Their 80s
The worst hit were a couple in their 80s who lost £24,000. It began with a call from a man claiming to be from BT over an alleged overdue bill. When the couple insisted they had paid, they were transferred to a fake detective sergeant — and the scam snowballed.
Police Warn: No Officer Will Ask For Cash or Bank Details
Nottinghamshire Police’s fraud protection team is helping victims claim back losses and hunting the scammers.
“We really need the public to be on their guard against this scam,” said Dale Richardson, fraud protection officer. “No genuine police officer or bank will ask you to hand over cash or reveal your PIN.”
The bogus callers often claim a relative of the victim was arrested with a bank card in their name, combined with reports of counterfeit notes tied to their bank. Victims are pressured to withdraw cash, only to have it stolen by fake couriers.
Some victims were told to dial 191 to verify the call, but that number is fake, leading them straight back to scammers.
Detective Inspector Ashley Xavier reassures the public: “We’re doing everything to track down those responsible and help victims recover their money. Please warn your friends and family. These con artists are cruel and convincing. If you suspect fraud, hang up and report it immediately.”
