Detectives from the North East Regional Organised Crime Unit (NEROCU) have secured jail sentences for organised criminals following their latest investigation into courier fraud.

Imran Miah, 30, Shamant Sheraji, 26, and Andy Munoz, 26, are adjusting to time behind bars after they were handed jail sentences for their involvement in fraud across the Cleveland and North Yorkshire area.

Between October and November 2020, the three men contacted victims claiming to be police officers. These victims were informed that their bank accounts were under threat and encouraged to remove cash from their accounts to secure the money, which would ultimately be collected by a courier who attend their home address.

As soon as officers identified the criminal operation a police investigation was quickly launched and NEROCU officers, supported by Cleveland Police were able to identify the three men and swiftly arrested them before the victims lost any money.

All three were charged with Conspiracy to Commit Fraud by False Representation and, thanks to the strong evidence put before the court, all three men pleaded guilty at Teesside Crown Court.

On Friday (June 13), the three appeared at the same court and were sentenced as follows:

Imran Miah, of Clarence Gardens, London, was sentenced to three years and six months imprisonment.

Andy Munoz-Cadena, of Haden Court, Lennox Road, Islington, was sentenced to two years and six months imprisonment.

Shamant Sheraji, of Ray Walk, Andover Estate, London, was sentenced to two years and three months imprisonment.

NEROCU, Detective Sergeant Gillian Coulson, the officer in charge of the investigation, said: “The impact on courier fraud victims is incredibly damaging. It not only sees their finances destroyed but the emotional impact can be just as severe.

“This result has been the work of a great team of officers and staff who I want to thank for their commitment and dedication to getting justice for these victims.

NEROCU Detective Inspector Shaun Fordy, added: “As part of Operation Sentinel, our region wide partnership approach to tackling serious and organised crime in all its forms, we will continue to target fraudsters and disrupt their criminal activity.

“Offenders typically target elderly or vulnerable people so we urge the public to speak to relatives and friends who may be more at risk and explain the dangers of courier fraud.

“Tell them that no bank or police officer will contact them to withdraw money from their account. They should hang up and call their bank’s Fraud Team by dialling 159.”

To report fraud, contact your local police force or visit www.actionfraud.police.uk