Three fraudsters who posed as police officers have been locked up after targeting people across the region.
They told people that their bank accounts had been compromised and advised them to remove cash which would then be picked up by couriers.
Detectives from the North East Regional Organised Crime Unit (NEROCU) and Cleveland Police joined forces to track down the suspects before any of the potential victims lost any of their money.
Imran Miah, 30, Shamant Sheraji, 26, and Andy Munoz-Cadena, 26, were charged with conspiracy to commit fraud by false representation before they all pleaded guilty at Teesside Crown Court.
The court heard how they targeted their potential victims across the Cleveland and North Yorkshire area between October and November 2020 while pretending to be police officers.
Speaking after the hearing, NEROCU, Detective Sergeant Gillian Coulson 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.”
Miah, of Clarence Gardens, London, was sentenced to three years and six months imprisonment.
Munoz-Cadena, of Haden Court, Lennox Road, Islington, was sentenced to two years and six months imprisonment.
And Sheraji, of Ray Walk, Andover Estate, London, was sentenced to two years and three months imprisonment.
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NEROCU Detective Inspector Shaun Fordy added: “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.”
To report fraud, contact your local police force or visit www.actionfraud.police.uk
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