Northern Ireland

Seven arrested in online fraud and money laundering probe

 Ten searches were carried out by the PSNI's Economic Crime Unit as part of an investigation into online fraud and money laundering
 Ten searches were carried out by the PSNI's Economic Crime Unit as part of an investigation into online fraud and money laundering  Ten searches were carried out by the PSNI's Economic Crime Unit as part of an investigation into online fraud and money laundering

SEVEN people suspected of being members of an organised crime gang have been arrested following police searches today.

Ten searches were carried out by the PSNI's Economic Crime Unit as part of an investigation into online fraud and money laundering.

Three men aged 26, 55 and 69, and four women, aged 20, 34, 42 and 48, were arrested in the Belfast, Bangor and Downpatrick areas on suspicion of fraud by false representation, conspiracy to defraud and money laundering offences.

Police said that a number of 'high value items,' including vintage cars, were seized as part of the operation.

Detective Inspector Katherine Montgomery from the Economic Crime Unit said that the aim of the operation was to " apprehend those allegedly involved in online fraud and money laundering."

"It comes after police received a substantial number of reports from victims who had been scammed online whilst believing they were purchasing high value goods from popular websites.

“These arrests reflect our continued commitment to dealing robustly with those involved in Fraud and Financial Crime and provide reassurance to the community that this type of organised crime will not be tolerated.”

Anyone who believes they may have been a victim of a crime of this nature is asked to contact Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or use the online reporting tool at https://www.actionfraud.police.uk.