Police warn of a spate of burglaries and fraud across the region

Police are issuing a warning after people have been defrauded of thousands of pounds following burglaries at premises across Devon and Cornwall.

The most recent occurrences were on 18 April when members of staff at doctors’ surgeries in Liskeard and Newton Abbot had their wallets stolen.

In the days following the thefts, the victims received bogus phone calls which have led to fraudulent activity.

In both cases the caller, claiming to be from their bank, told the victim that arrests had been made and their property had been recovered.

The caller then requested the victim’s bank pin codes to verify their account allowing them to make large withdrawals and purchases using the victim’s details.

After initial enquires, police have identified a series of crimes in similar circumstances at businesses including hotels, a golf club and a hospital. Incidents occurred in Liskeard, Tiverton, Exeter (four incidents), St Austell, Ottery St Mary and Chulmleigh.

PC Phil Tucker explained: “We believe this to be a professional outfit operating across the Force area and not likely to be anyone known to the victims. We would emphasise people to challenge unknown people even if they appear to be staff.”

“Police are advising people to be vigilant when dealing with unsolicited calls.”

Banks and Building Societies will never ask for PIN numbers or sensitive information to be disclosed over the phone.  If in any doubt, take the contact details and phone the police.

www.actionfraud.org is a website that offers information and advice about the common and current frauds/scams that occur.  It also offers advice on how to deal and prevent it.

Anyone who has any information is asked to please call police on 101 quoting crime ref. BD/13/546.