OFFICERS have charged four people following an investigation into fraudulent calls made to people in Cumbria by criminals pretending to be police officers.

Detective inspector Lee Brumpton from Cumberland CID said: “The charges follow proactive action taken by a dedicated team of detectives who over the last three days have taken action to arrest and charge four suspects in connection.”

Despite the charges, DI Brumpton is appealing to anyone who has been victim to such a scam to contact us.

He continues: “Our dedicated team of detectives will deal with your report sensitively and positively.

“I would also like to remind our communities to still remain vigilant to these phone calls and continue to share advice with family and friends, so they are aware of this recent scam within our community. “

The following people have been charged:

Bilal Akhter, aged 39, of no fixed address was charged with conspiring to steal from another.

Amir Sohail Rehman, aged 28, of Colwick Road, Nottingham was charged with conspiring to steal from another.

Luliana Nicolae, aged 23, of Stockhill Lane, Nottingham was charged with conspiring to steal from another.

Muhammad Shahzeb, aged 19, of Stenson Road, Derby was charged with conspiring to steal from another, theft – other- including theft by finding and possessing a shotgun without a certificate. 

All four were remanded to appear at North and West Cumbria Magistrates today, September 27. 

If you think you have been the victim of fraud you can report this to police on 101 and to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 – or by visiting their website at www.actionfraud.police.uk.