Inspector Andy Rice, local policing inspector for Penarth, speaks out about the latest happening in the Vale of Glamorgan and Penarth this month.

IN LAST month’s column I wanted to raise awareness of a scam where fraudsters are claiming to be police officers to get hold of your money.

Unfortunately, in the past month we have seen an increase in scam calls in particular fraudsters purporting to be from the HMRC.

These fraudsters pretending to be from HMRC are threatening the victim with arrest unless they pay money supposedly owed.

In some incidents the scammers are also asking for people to buy ITunes and other gift cards.

Last week, we held a meeting with local representatives from banks, retailers and charities, to help ensure we are all working together to combat the cold-hearted fraudsters who want to exploit our elderly and most vulnerable.

The message is simple – police, HMRC and banks will never ask you to withdraw money or provide details of your account. If you receive a call of this nature then please hang up and report it to us on 101.

We have a team of detectives dedicated to investigating these scams under Operation Signature.

Please help us to share the message by telling your loved ones.

On a more positive note, our annual police open day which was held in Sully Sports and Social Club on August 18, was a great success.

Around 1,500 people came to join in the fun and learn about the work we carry out. It was a fantastic community event