Dorset Police news site

Detectives are issuing a public warning and appealing for information as they investigate a series of courier fraud incidents across Dorset.

Dorset Police is currently investigating eight reports of fraud or attempted fraud between Friday 7 November and 14 November 2025 involving suspects targeting elderly victims.

The fraudsters have been claiming they are calling from the police and have a person in custody who had gained access to the victims’ bank accounts. The victims were advised to go to their banks and withdraw cash, which would be collected by a plain-clothed officer.

On three of the occasions the victims handed over cash, with the total values involved amounting to several thousand pounds.

The victims targeted were in Bournemouth, Bridport, Purbeck, Poole and Christchurch.

Detective Inspector Jon Sainsbury, of BCP CID, said: “We are carrying out enquiries into these incidents and I would urge anyone with information that could assist our investigation to please come forward.

“We would also urge anyone who is contacted in a similar manner to please report it to us.

“The police will never ask for your bank details over the phone and we would urge members of the public to be vigilant of this potential scam and to ensure they raise awareness among elderly relatives and neighbours, who we often sadly see targeted by this type of activity.”

Dorset Police has shared advice for anyone who suspects a call may be fraudulent:

• Your bank or the police will never ask for your PIN.
• Neither the police nor the banks will send a courier to collect money from you.
• If you're asked to telephone a bank, always make the call on a different phone to the one you were contacted on.
• Do not rush into complying to the scammers demands.
• If you have already given your bank details over the phone or handed your card details to a courier, call your bank straight away to let them know and request that they cancel the card.

The Fraud Protect team are keen for residents to share advice with friends and members of their family and local community to ensure they are aware of these scams and feel confident spotting the warning signs.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police online or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55250170076. Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online using its website or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.