Garage card-cloning investigated

A number of motorists who used credit or debit cards at a Cotswolds garage have reported being victims of fraud.

Police believe a data recording and transmitting device may have been fitted to the swipe machine at the Murco petrol station in Andoversford.

Customers were contacted by their banks after suspicious withdrawals from their accounts in countries such as Jamaica.

Gloucestershire Police said the petrol company and local management were fully co-operating with their inquiries.

The swipe machine has been seized for forensic science examinations.

Acting Sgt Tim Griffiths said police received the first report of possible credit card cloning last Thursday morning.

"It was soon apparent that many in the area had fallen victim to numerous fraudulent transactions on their debit and credit cards," he said.

"A warrant was executed on Saturday morning at the Murco Garage at Andoversford, as were related warrants for addresses in Cheltenham and Churchdown.

"I would like to stress that Murco UK and the local management are fully co-operating with the investigation."

Anyone who used the cash machine between May and the first week of June, and who noticed suspicious withdrawals from their account, is advised to contact their bank and inform the police.