Three men charged over Forth Valley and Aberdeen fraud incidents

Over the past two weeks, police have received a number of reports of vulnerable individuals in Stirling and Aberdeen being targeted by criminals claiming to be from the force or representatives of a bank.

The criminals have allegedly told victims there was suspicious activity on their account and that a police officer would attend their home to collect their bank card to conduct enquiries or collect withdrawn cash for safe keeping.

As part of their investigation, officers carried out search warrants at properties in Stirling and Glasgow.

Two men, aged 32 and 56, are due to appear at Stirling Sheriff Court on Monday, November 23.

A 27-year-old man is due to appear at Aberdeen Sheriff Court on Tuesday, November 24.

A 22-year-old woman was arrested in connection with the incidents and released pending further enquiries.

Detective Inspector Davy MacGregor, of Stirling CID, said: “I would remind people that police officers and representatives from banks will never cold call you and ask you to transfer money to another bank account or to withdraw money to be collected for safe keeping.

“Whilst these individuals can appear genuine, if you receive a request like this, please terminate any calls and contact the police immediately on 101.

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“I’d also urge those with vulnerable family members or friends to highlight these types of crimes. Working together with communities and other partners, we will disrupt those involved.”

Detective Sergeant Scott McKay, of Aberdeen CID, said: “I’d like to thank those who have assisted with our investigation so far.

“We continue to carry out enquiries and I’d encourage anyone who believes they may have been the victim of a similar fraud to contact police immediately on 101.

“Working alongside our colleagues in Stirling and Glasgow, we’ve shown that no matter where criminals base themselves within the country, they will be pursued relentlessly until they are arrested.”

Anyone with information that may assist ongoing enquiries can contact Police Scotland on 101.

Call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Visit the Police Scotland website for fraud prevention advice.

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