Car scam raids

POLICE execute dawn raids in Oldham, Levenshulme and Stockport, resulting in five arrests

POLICE made five arrests when they executed dawn raids in Oldham as they targeted gang members believed to be involved in a high-value car scam.

More than 100 officers from Greater Manchester Police and Cheshire Constabulary carried out the raids, which included areas in Levenshulme and Stockport.

Officers targeted eight properties and arrested five men aged between 28 and 58-years-old.

The sting follows a lengthy and complex investigation by Cheshire Constabulary's Economic Crime Unit, looking into the activities of a group thought to be fraudulently leasing high value cars, which are then transported overseas and never seen again.

Det Sgt Brian Faint, of Cheshire Constabulary's Economic Crime Unit, said: "Organised crime groups bring misery and pain to our communities.

"Fraud is not a victimless crime and the operation was a great success. It reinforces our commitment to targeting those who believe they can commit these offences and get away with it.

"We will continue to track down anyone believed to be involved in these offences to ensure we protect our communities and local businesses."

Anyone who believes they may have been a victim of fraud should report it by contacting 101 or by contaction Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or report it online at actionfraud.co.uk.