Four men have been arrested in connection with phone scams across the region following a series of raids yesterday (Wednesday).

People across Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire and Cambridge, as well as Essex, Norfolk and Suffolk, have been targeted, often with fraudsters posing as police officers.

An 18-year-old man, a 24-year-old man and a 26-year-old man from London were arrested on suspicion of fraud by false representation.

A 23-year-old man from London was arrested on suspicion of theft.

All the men arrested have been bailed until Thursday, July 10.

ERSOU Detective Chief Inspector Jon Gilbert said: “These latest warrants carried out yesterday show how we are committed in ensuring the region is a hostile place for anyone involved in phone scams and organised crime.

“We will continue to pursue those believed to be involved in this type of crime and make arrests; however the public should still be aware of the scam operating across the region. The elderly and vulnerable do tend to be targeted and so we’d urge people to share the following advice with their relatives, friends and neighbours.

“If you are suspicious about a telephone conversation you should end the call and contact police via the non-emergency number, 101. Remember to use a mobile phone or a friend’s phone or wait at least five minutes before calling to ensure you aren’t reconnected to the offender.”

ERSOU will feature on the BBC’s Watchdog programme on Wednesday, June 4, at 8pm, after some of the raids were filmed.

For further information about phone scams please visit: www.herts.police.uk/PhoneScams