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Over 20 arrests as intensification period tackling organised crime takes place across the region.
Two men who were involved in duping people out of more than £3.7million by claiming to give them early access to their pension pots have been jailed following an investigation by the Yorkshire and Humber Regional Organised Crime Unit (YHROCU).
A Northumberland man has been sentenced following an attempted theft from an ATM in Powburn – after using explosive tactics.
Incidents of suspects pressuring people into buying low-value household items such as feather dusters, cloths and basic utensils have been reported across the region. Victims are then overcharged on mobile card machines with victims in some cases being defrauding of thousands of pounds on their doorsteps. Recent cases investigated by the YHROCU involve SumUp card reader devices where victims were charged far more than agreed, sometimes overcharged by as little as £50, and in other instances with totals running into thousands of pounds. Suspects quote a smaller price at the door before amending the number without the victim’s knowledge or by rushing them through the payment process so they don’t notice the final sum is far higher than agreed. This tactic is consistent with wider doorstep fraud patterns, pressure selling, unfair practices and deception, highlighted in national guidance. YHROCU counter fraud coordinator Jags Sanghera said: “These individuals are not genuine community sellers, they are organised criminals deliberately targeting those who may place trust in a knock at the door. “If anyone approaches you unannounced offering items for sale, do not engage. Stop the transaction immediately, close the door, and report the incident to the police without delay.” How to protect yourself and others Don’t buy on the doorstep. You are under no obligation to engage with cold callers. If in doubt, keep them out. Never hand over your card or allow anyone else to operate the machine. Check the screen carefully and decline if the amount isn’t what you agreed. Ask for a printed or emailed receipt and business details. Look out for neighbours, especially those who are older or otherwise vulnerable, and report suspicious activity. If you’ve been targeted or think you’ve overpaid Report it online at Report Fraud (the national reporting centre) If a crime is in progress, the suspect is nearby, call 999. For non-emergencies, call 101. Contact your bank immediately to dispute any unauthorised or incorrect transaction. Card-reader providers outline chargeback processes for incorrect amounts or disputed transactions.
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A significant breakthrough has been achieved in a long running North Wales Police fraud case, with 33 victims now set to receive long awaited compensation thanks to the work of the NWROCU’s Economic Crime Unit.
The Yorkshire and Humber Regional Organised Crime Unit (YHROCU) continues to play a vital role in tackling serious and organised crime (SOC) across the region according to a report published by His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS).
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This morning (Tuesday 16 December) officers from the North West Regional Organised Crime Unit carried out a warrant at an address in Lancaster as part of an investigation into courier fraud and the receipt of goods through fraud.
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A drug dealer has been jailed after we managed to connect him to the supply of cocaine and cannabis.
A sexual predator who arranged to meet a child for sex has been sentenced.
Thanks to officers from the North East Regional Organised Crime Unit (NEROCU), working together with Cleveland Police and the Metropolitan Police, two men have been handed prison sentences for their efforts to steal money from elderly victims.