Police issue warning following rise in courier fraud incidents across the county

Northamptonshire Police’s Economic Crime Team (ECU) are urging residents to remain vigilant following a recent increase in courier fraud, with two cases reported in Duston and Flore within the past week.

On the afternoon of Wednesday, June 3, an elderly woman in Enfield Close, Duston, was targeted after receiving a cold call from individuals falsely claiming to be police officers. She was told her bank accounts had been compromised due to cloned cards. Later that day, at approximately 5pm, a man posing as a courier attended her address and collected cash and several sentimental items of jewellery, which he claimed were required for “safekeeping” as part of an investigation.

The suspect is described as a white man, about 18 years old, wearing dark clothing with the hood up, a high-visibility vest, and a face mask.

A similar incident occurred the following evening (June 4) in Sutton Acre, Flore, at around 7.30pm. The victim was contacted by fraudsters posing as police officers and was persuaded to withdraw 5,000 euros. A courier later attended her home and collected the cash. The suspect in this case is described as a white man in his late teens to early 20s, wearing black clothing, a high-visibility jacket, and a face mask.

Police are actively investigating both and believe they form part of a wider pattern of organised courier fraud activity.

Sergeant Michael Rogers from the Force’s Economic Crime Unit said: “These incidents are extremely concerning, and we urge residents to remain vigilant. Fraudsters can be very convincing but remember – police officers will never ask for money, valuables, or your banking details over the phone or in person.”

How Courier Fraud Works 

Courier fraud typically involves criminals contacting victims - often elderly or vulnerable individuals - by phone while pretending to be police officers or bank officials. They may claim there is an urgent issue with the victim’s finances and use convincing language to gain trust.

Victims are then pressured into withdrawing large sums of money or gathering valuables, which are collected by a courier sent to their home.

Key Warning Signs 

• Unexpected calls from someone claiming to be police or bank staff
• Requests to urgently withdraw cash
• Instructions to keep the situation secret
• Arrangements for a courier to collect money or valuables from your home

Important Advice from Police 

• Officers will never ask you to withdraw cash, reveal your PIN, or hand over valuables to a courier
• Hang up immediately if you receive a suspicious call
• Verify any claims by contacting your bank or police using official numbers
• Never share personal or financial information over the phone
• Do not hand over money or valuables to anyone at your door
• Speak to a trusted friend or family member if you are unsure

Anyone who believes they have been targeted or has fallen victim to courier fraud is urged to report it immediately by calling 101. If a crime is in progress, dial 999.

Police are also encouraging members of the public to share this warning, particularly with elderly or vulnerable people who may be more frequently targeted by fraudsters.

Anyone with information relating to these incidents is also asked to come forward.