Kent Police Target Fraudsters in National Operation

A major fraud crackdown led by Kent Police has resulted in 22 arrests and the seizure of £279,000 in cash and assets, as part of a national initiative to combat financial crime.

The enforcement, carried out under Operation Henhouse, took place throughout February and was supported by the National Economic Crime Centre. The campaign provided additional funding for police forces across the country to target fraudsters and recover stolen funds.

Key Arrests and Seizures

• £1 million returned to a fraud victim who was tricked in an investment scam.
• A Harley Davidson motorbike worth £21,000 was seized, believed to have been purchased with criminal profits.
• Suspects arrested for various fraud-related offences, including:
  • Impersonating a police officer
  • Solar panel installation scam
  • Credit card fraud

Additionally, officers conducted six non-custodial interviews with suspected fraudsters and executed 12 search warrants across Kent.

Action Against Rogue Traders

As part of the operation, a suspected rogue trader and an individual believed to be scamming people through online vehicle sales were issued cease and desist letters while their activities remain under police surveillance.

To raise awareness and prevent fraud, officers also delivered over 30 presentations across the county.

Kent Police Statement

Detective Inspector Marc Makin, who led the operation, said:

“Anyone can become a victim of fraud, which is why we work tirelessly year-round to track down and arrest suspects.

“Campaigns like these give us an opportunity to focus our efforts on bringing offenders to justice while also educating the public on how to protect themselves from fraudsters.”

How to Protect Yourself from Fraud

Police advise using the ABC of scam awareness:

✅ Never Assume a caller, email, or text is genuine.
✅ Never Believe what you are told without verification.
✅ Always Confirm by checking with a trusted friend, your bank’s fraud department, or the police.

Additional tips:

• The police will NEVER call to ask you to withdraw or transfer money as part of an investigation. If unsure, hang up and call 101 from a different phone.
• Avoid clicking links in unsolicited emails or texts—they may be scams.
• Use strong and unique passwords for online accounts.

Further Fraud Advice

For more information on how to protect yourself from scams, visit the Kent Police website or contact Action Fraud at 0300 123 2040.

This remains an ongoing investigation, with further updates expected as police continue their crackdown on fraud.