Four men were arrested in connection with a series of courier fraud offences from across the country.

Four men from Smethwick were arrested on suspicion of a series of courier theft offences committed across the country.

West Midlands Police confirmed that officers from the Regional Economic Crime Team had arrested the four men from addresses across Smethwick on Thursday.

The force confirmed that four men, aged 18, 19, 21 and 22, were all bailed with conditions while investigations continues.

Detective Inspector Jon Green, from the Regional Economic Crime Unit, said: "Courier fraud offenders specifically target vulnerability in society with the sole intent of financial gain.

“They give no consideration to the long term emotional and psychological harm they cause to victims.

"Yesterday's enforcement is a significant step in what is a very complex ongoing investigation.

“We want to raise awareness for this offending and work with the public to protect people in the community and prevent further offences."

A spokesman for West Midlands Police said: “Courier fraud occurs when criminals contact you by phone and convince you to hand over money, expensive items or your debit/credit card under false pretences.

“They will typically pretend to be in positions of trust (such as Police officers or banking officials) and will prey on the victims trust or fear of loss to convince them to hand over items to a courier attending their home address.”