FRAUDSTERS are back in action claiming to be from the police in order to extort money from the vulnerable in Shropshire.

Officers have received several reports of residents receiving calls from someone claiming to be a detective for the police stating that their grandson had been arrested in London.

West Mercia Police officers believe this is the caller’s way of engaging with their victim to then attempt to obtain money.

Detective Inspector Rich Davies said that in recent cases reported to police, the informant terminated the call when they suspected it to be a hoax but urged people to be aware.

He said: “There are many aliases used by these fraudsters but claiming to be Detective Collins appears to be the latest one we have been aware of.

“We would ask members of the public to share this message that if you are called by someone using this name or claiming to be from the police as it is fraudulent.

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“Fortunately, none of the victims gave the caller personal details as they suspected the call wasn’t genuine, but this isn’t always the case.

“I must stress that no police officer from West Mercia Police or another force will ever contact you and request you withdraw or transfer funds for any purpose, regardless of what unit they are from or role they claim to perform.

“Anyone who receives one of these calls should not give out personal details, hang up and report it immediately to Action Fraud at www.actionfraud.police.uk or 0300 123 2040."

If the crime is still in progress, because for example, you have recently provided bank details or handed over cards or cash, or the caller has arranged for someone to visit your address to collect items, you should call the police to report this on 101.

In an emergency dial 999.