Business warning on card fraud

Businesses in the Welshpool area are being warned against criminals asking for unusual cash transfers using a credit card.

 

The warning to be vigilant came after three individuals were arrested following an attempted fraud at a Llandrinio garage on December 23.

 

One of the arrested suspects attempted to obtain a money transfer on a pre-pay card, using a credit card that was declined. He then left the premises without paying.

 

Following the report of the crime to Dyfed-Powys Police, details of the suspects and their car were shared with West Mercia Police and subsequent arrests were made across the border.

 

The three suspects were interviewed at Newtown Police Station, which led to a search of their home addresses in the London area – where cash and valuable items were discovered.

 

Criminals who travel to Powys are continuing to get a tough time following the arrest of three individuals on 23 December 2010 for fraud.

 

The incident took place at a Service Station Garage in the Llandrinio area when one of the arrested suspects attempted to obtain a money transfer on a pre-pay card, using a credit card that was declined. He then left the premises without paying.

 

Following consultation with the Crown Prosecution Service a remand application was sought for all three to be charged with conspiracy to commit fraud by false representation.

 

They appeared at Brecon Magistrates Court on Christmas Eve and were further remanded in custody.

 

Powys Superintendent Huw Meredith said: “This cross-border collaborative effort demonstrates that working effectively in partnership enables the police to target criminals and catch them in their tracks. I would like to thank all the officers involved in this incident for their efficient response.

 

“I would also like to take this opportunity to urge members of the business community in the Welshpool area to be extra vigilant if persons unknown enter your premises and ask for unusual cash transfers using a credit card.”

 

If you have information regarding this type of criminal activity, call Dyfed-Powys Police on the 101.