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Fraud investigation launched in Rotherham

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Fraud investigation launched in Rotherham

Latest news in Yorkshire: September 04, 2018 12:04:54 PM

Detectives in Rotherham have launched a fraud investigation following a
series of incidents involving bogus police officers.

Operation Siberia was launched in response to numerous reported fraud
incidents in Rotherham and Sheffield.

Officers received the first report in early July and Operation Siberia is
now investigating 15 separate reports of fraud in Rotherham and Sheffield.

Victims report receiving a phone call from someone claiming to be a
detective from New Scotland Yard, the Metropolitan Police or another force
outside of South Yorkshire, investigating fraud in Rotherham.

The caller has gone on to say that a bank card has been used fraudulently
and asked the victim to contact another number to provide their bank
details. The call has been made from a withheld number.

Detective Sergeant Rob Cobley is investigating the series of linked
incidents.

“Although it is easily done and I don’t want to criticise people for being
trustworthy, I can’t stress enough how important it is not to give out
personal details over the phone,” he said.

“Police officers will never ask for personal financial details and banks
will never do this over the phone.

“If you have any elderly or vulnerable relatives, please do speak to them
about fraud and remind them not to give their details out.”

DS Cobley said that of the 15 incidents, 13 had been reported in Rotherham
and two in Sheffield. On four occasions, victims have gone to their banks to
withdraw money. On one occasion, the bank would not allow the withdrawal of
cash but in one instance, the victim was conned out of £12,000.

“If you, or if someone you know has received a similar call, please let us
know so we can gather as much evidence as possible to bring the offenders to
justice,” he added.

“Fraud is a cowardly and calculated crime and no-one should be taken
advantage of and be made to feel so vulnerable.

“I’d hate to think that more people could fall victim to fraud so please
share our advice far and wide.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact 101 quoting Operation Siberia.
You can also contact Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040.

There is information available about this type of fraud on the Action Fraud
website here: https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/fraud-az-courier-scam

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