A major police operation in London has led to the arrest of 18 suspects and the seizure of over £250,000 in cash as authorities crack down on courier fraud.

The Metropolitan Police launched the initiative in February in response to a wave of scams that typically involve fraudsters posing as couriers to trick victims into handing over cash or bank cards. Since the operation began, reported incidents have dropped by 46%.

Among those targeted was a 101-year-old London resident — the oldest victim identified in the investigation — highlighting how fraudsters often prey on the elderly and vulnerable.

Working in partnership with the City of London Police, officers carried out raids across the city, using covert tactics and intelligence to dismantle what they believe are organised crime networks behind the frauds.

Detective Superintendent Kerry Wood, head of the Met’s economic crime unit, praised officers for their work:
"Met officers have worked extremely hard over the last few months to protect those vulnerable to this devastating crime, which can deprive people of their livelihoods, pensions, and life savings," she said.
"The impact is not just financial — it can cause lasting emotional harm. We’ve made significant arrests, but our efforts will continue. Our message is clear: we will investigate, we will arrest, and we will bring offenders to justice."

Police say they are also collaborating with banks, businesses, and community organisations to educate the public and prevent further fraud. Officers have already visited more than 100 victims to assist in recovering stolen funds. Photo by André Gustavo Stumpf from Brasil, Wikimedia commons.