Police in Newry have made three arrests after concerned staff at a building society contacted police about an attempted transaction which roused their suspicions.
Detective Inspector Keon said: “We were contacted by staff at the building society yesterday, Friday 26th September, after they used Banking Protocol legislation in order to ask a number of questions of a customer who was attempting to make a very large cash withdrawal.
“The customer, a vulnerable older person, was accompanied by three adults who staff believed were exhibiting controlling behaviours.
“We are grateful that these staff notified us straight away, allowing us to take the necessary action while the customer was still on the premises.
“Officers attended the scene and carried out a number of enquiries.
“Three people – two men aged 68 and 42, and a woman aged 69 – were then arrested on suspicion of attempting to obtain property by deception, and possession of articles for use in fraud. They were later further arrested on suspicion of kidnapping, human trafficking and fraud by false representation.
“They remain in custody at this time.”
Detective Inspector Keon explained: “The Banking Protocol is a UK-wide initiative through which branch staff in financial institutions may enquire about financial transactions such as deposits, cash withdrawals or payment transfers, with the aim of protecting customers from financial crime.
“The Banking Protocol sees financial institutions and the police working in partnership to safeguard the public and protect their money.
“We are committed to doing everything we can to prevent and reduce the number of financial crimes committed, particularly against older persons.
“Regardless of where you complete financial transactions, staff are there to help if you have any worries or concerns. Consumers and businesses can report financial crime to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or the PSNI on 101.”
For more information about the ScamwiseNI Partnership and how to protect yourself from scams, visit its website (www.nidirect.gov.uk/campaigns/scamwiseni) and Facebook page (www.facebook.com/scamwiseni). More information on the Banking Protocol, alongside a helpful video, can be viewed at www.consumercouncil.org.uk/scams/bankingprotocol
