WE are trying to track victims of a huge cash for crash scam.
We think there are many more Huddersfield victims of these alleged insurance swindles.
So I am appealing to the public for help.
As reported in last week’s Examiner, we arrested 25 from across the district on suspicion of offences including conspiracy to commit fraud.
We also recovered cash and property worth more than £200,000. All have been bailed pending further inquiries.
The investigation – Operation Thatcham – involves Kirklees CID and the Proceeds of Crime Team, and centres around a business premises on Blackmoorfoot Road, Crosland Moor.
Arrests and searches were carried out at addresses across Kirklees, including Lindley, and in Halifax and Blackburn.
The scammers stage car crashes and submit fraudulent insurance and personal injury claims.
Anyone who feels they have been a victim of such a scam, or may have been coerced into getting involved in one, should contact Det Con Mark Lunn, quoting ‘Operation Thatcham’, on 01924 295311 or 0845 6060606.
We’re also appealing for information after a teenager was robbed of his mobile phone at knifepoint in Highfields.
The 16-year-old boy was walking along a snicket which links Elmwood Avenue and Belmont Street at around 1pm on Wednesday, October 12, when he was confronted by two men – one with a knife.
The pair made off with the boy’s phone – a black Samsung S1520 GT – and around £5 in change towards Elmwood Avenue.
Both men involved are white and around 19 to 25. One is described as 5’6” to 5’8” tall, of medium build, with short black hair and stubble, and blue eyes. He wore a black jacket or hoodie and spoke with a local accent.
The other is described as 5’8” to 5’10”, of skinny build and clean shaven.
He wore a green Adidas hoodie and scruffy white trainers.
Contact Det Con Pete Usher at via 0845 6060606.
