Suspect in £1million fraud detained after two-year hunt

Patrolling officers were left stunned when computer checks revealed the motorist they had just stopped was wanted in relation to a high-value fraud investigation.

Detectives launched a probe in 2021 after a property buyer was duped into transferring £1,074,406.40 to fraudsters posing as her solicitors, who were overseeing a London house sale.

The victim’s losses have since been refunded by her bank and a Nottinghamshire Police investigation to find the fraudsters – who went on to disperse the money into a number of other accounts – has been ongoing since, with inquiries suggesting the suspects had fled to Romania.

Despite this, the investigation remained open and an arrest was made on Thursday last week (20 July).

Patrolling officers in a police car stopped a BMW in Sandy Lane, Mansfield, after suspecting it had been exceeding the speed limit.

They spoke to the driver and checks found he was wanted in relation to the £1million fraud investigation.

The 27-year-old was subsequently arrested on suspicion of concealing / disguising criminal property. He was taken into custody for questioning and later bailed pending further inquiries.

The suspect's passport has been confiscated and he must attend Mansfield Police Station every Monday, Wednesday and Friday as part of his bail conditions.

Detective Inspector Ashley Xavier, of Nottinghamshire Police’s Economic Crime Unit, said: “This was excellent work by the patrolling officers and, as a result, we have been able to question a man in relation to a very serious offence.

“I would like to commend the work of the officers and hope it sends out a strong message to anyone trying to evade arrest – we will find you, and you will be brought into custody.”

Inquiries to trace the second suspect are continuing.