Detectives investigating a scam where fraudsters purport to be police officers have made an arrest.

An 18 year old London man has been arrested in Cardiff yesterday evening on suspicion of Theft and Fraud.

The arrest was in connection with a series of scams committed in the Penarth and Cardiff area today in which three elderly victims were conned in to handing over approximately £20,000.

He is currently in police custody at Bridgend.

Detective Chief Inspector Mark Lewis said:

“I cannot stress enough how sophisticated and well-rehearsed these scammers are, and any one of us could fall victim to their con if we are not vigilant.

“The message is clear – the police will never contact you in this manner – we will never ask for money. All calls of this nature are a scam, and the person receiving the call should hang up as soon as possible.

“This arrest is a positive development which I hope will provide some reassurance to our communities that we will relentlessly pursue those who look to exploit the vulnerable.

“A team of detectives have been investigating these type of scams as part of Operation Signature and I would urge anyone who receives any suspicious calls should let us know by calling 101.”