M4: Police Investigate 'Elaborate Fraud'

1 July 2015, 09:29 | Updated: 6 July 2015, 16:10

Police say they are investigating reports of an 'elaborate fraud' along the M4 corridor are keen to hear from people who may have been targeted.

The reports usually begin with the story of a man carrying a green fuel can. It's believed he stands on various slip roads between junction 19 of the M4 (M32 junction) and junction 15 (A419 Swindon turnoff).

Wiltshire Police told Heart: "Claiming his vehicle has broken down elsewhere due to running out of fuel he asks motorists for a lift to the nearest service station, primarily Leigh Delemere or Membury.  En route he claims to take a call from the Highways Agency or police who require his car to be moved at a cost of around £1000. Those giving him a lift have then offered to help out towards the cost. Once dropped at the services they never hear from him again."

Officers are keen to hear from anyone who may have been targeted in similar circumstances or who has any information about these incidents.

People with information are asked to contact Police Sergeant Paul Harvey from Wiltshire Police in Melksham on 101 (you will need to select Wiltshire Police if you dial from elsewhere).