Police launch hunt for ID-theft conmen

A rogues’ gallery of 25 identity thieves has been published in a bid to clamp down on criminal gangs who impersonate innocent people.

Pictures of conmen who were caught using genuine identities have been published by the charity Crimestoppers and the Serious Organised Crime Agency (SOCA).

They have warned that criminals are stealing genuine identities to apply for documents including passports and driving licences, but providing their own picture.

The documents are then used by gangs involved in people trafficking and drug smuggling.

Nigel Kirby from SOCA said: “These fraudulently-obtained identity documents are being used by criminals for criminal purposes. Passports and driving licences don’t just allow you to travel and drive, they are important identity documents that can be used to support applications for mortgages, bank loans and benefits.

“This is the first phase of this campaign and it is important hese criminals are tracked down and brought before the courts.”

Identity theft accounted for around half of all fraud recorded in the UK last year.

The most-wanted gallery has been posted on the Crimestoppers website. Anyone with information can contact the charity anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via an online form.