POLICE has issued a warning following numerous reports of courier fraud in the areas of Kingston, Surbiton and Twickenham.

Residents have been contacted by people claiming to be police officers stating they require assistance in an ongoing police investigation.

Victims are encouraged to attend their local bank and withdraw thousands of pounds.

A password is given to the victim and a courier will later arrive to collect the money, stating the same password.

In November, a couple, aged in their 80s and from Kingston, were victim of courier fraud after being contacted by a 'police officer'.

The couple were fooled into handing over their bank cards and £4000.

Your Local Guardian:

Detective Constable Laura Travers, of the South West Basic Command Unit, said: "The recent courier frauds taking place in the south west of London are a real concern, particularly as the group generally affected are the elderly members of the community.

"This is not only having a significant financial impact, but an emotional impact on each and every victim.

"These crimes take advantage of peoples’ good nature and can have a lasting effect.

"I would urge everyone in the community to discuss this matter with elderly friends and family members to make sure that they are aware of these types of scams.

"If you receive a call from an unknown person, hang up, take five minutes and then verify the callers’ identification through a trusted method.

"Genuine police officers will not ask you to take out cash or to send cash via a courier.

"If you suspect you have been a victim of fraud, please call 101 or 999 in an emergency."