Two suspects have been arrested as part of a continued clampdown around courier fraud and money laundering.

Last week (October 17), officers from the North East Regional Organised Crime Unit (NEROCU) supported by the Metropolitan Police, simultaneously executed four warrants at addresses across the region.

The targeted police operation saw raids at addresses on Lavender Road in Battersea, Marlands Road in Ilford and Normandy Drive in Hayes.

Two men, aged 18 and 20, were all arrested on suspicion of Conspiracy to Defraud and Money Laundering. They have been interviewed by officers from NEROCU’s Proactive Economic Crime Team and were released on bail whilst police enquiries continue.

NEROCU Detective Sergeant James Woodcock, part of NEROCU’s Proactive Economic Crime Team, said: “These warrants are just the latest action we’re taking with partners to pursue those suspected to be involved in courier fraud.

“Since the start of 2024, victims in the UK have lost over 4 million pounds to this crime type and I want suspects to know that we will travel anywhere in the country to arrest them and bring justice to the victims of this crime that targets some of the most vulnerable in our communities.

“It is operations like this that help cut of suspected illicit funds of organised gangs- and our work will continue. It shows the lengths we’ll go in order to protect victims here in the North East.

“I would like to thank everyone involved in the execution of these warrants. It has been a fantastic display of a united police front against suspected fraudsters.”

Anyone who has any information about criminal activity, can report it to their local police or via the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.