Two Birmingham men charged over £107k courier fraud
Police have charged two men over a scam to which dozens of people fell victim.
Hashm Ali and Mohammed Shaqeeb were charged with conspiracy to commit fraud after 24 people were allegedly scammed out of more than £107,000.
Courier fraud scams see criminals pose as police officers or bank officials to convince people to hand over cash, bank card details or other valuables.
Today, two Birmingham men were due in court after 24 people in the West Midlands reported being defrauded out of more than £107k.
After an extensive investigation, the force's Economic Crime Unit carried out two warrants last month and arrested Ali and Shaqeeb.
Ali, 34, and Shaqeeb, 38, were both charged with conspiracy to commit fraud, and were due to appear at Birmingham Crown Court today.
A West Midlands Police spokesperson said: "We’re reminding people to be vigilant against courier fraud scams, where criminals pose as police officers or bank officials and convince people to hand over cash, bank cards, or valuables."
The force has also released tips to help people stay safe from courier fraud scams, including never giving out bank account details or PIN numbers or withdrawing money at the request of someone else.
Never give out your bank account details or PIN numbers to anyone over the phone, even if they claim to be from your bank or the police.
If you receive a call from someone claiming to be from the police or your bank, hang up immediately and wait a few moments to ensure the line has been disconnected. You can call the number on the back of your bank card to verify their identify or call police on 101 if you are unsure. If possible, use a different phone line or mobile to make this call.
Never withdraw cash from your bank account or purchase expensive items at the request of someone who has contacted you over the phone.
If a courier comes to your home to collect cash, cards, PIN numbers or valuables, refuse to hand them over and call the police immediately on 999.
Speak to elderly neighbours and family members about the dangers of courier fraud.
Anyone who has been a victim of courier fraud should call 999 immediately and report it to your bank.
More information on courier fraud can be found by calling the Action Fraud helpline at 0300 123 2040 or by visiting the group's website.
