Man arrested for allegedly selling over 500 fake coronavirus testing kits

A man from Birmingham has been arrested after allegedly selling over 500 fake coronavirus testing kits.

The 38-year-old was taken into custody from a property in the Jewellery Quarter for alleged offences under the Fraud Act 2006.

He is believed to have sold the kits to customers in the UK and United States on the dark and open webs.

Officers from the National Crime Agency seized small quantities of what is believed to be cocaine and heroin, and business records, which are now being examined.

A second property was searched in Edgbaston, where suspected fake Covid-19 testing kits were found.

Officers are searching for a 36-year-old man in connection with selling kits and are urging him to come forward.

The National Crime Agency has warned anyone trying to profit from the public's fears of the pandemic 'should taken note of this arrest'.

The National Economic Crime Centre have urged the public to be 'even more cautious' than usual when shopping online.

It says to follow the 'Take Five To Stop Fraud' advice: Stop, Challenge & Protect.

If you believe you are a victim, please report it to your bank and Action Fraud immediately.

The Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency is urging the people to report suspected fake testing kits via their via their Yellow Card Scheme any website or social media post offering to sell these types of products: https://yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk/or Casereferrals@mhra.gov.uk