POLICE are trying to trace people who could have fallen victim to a cash-point scam.

The investigation surrounds suspected thefts at the ATM outside the Co-op on Newton Road in High Heaton, Newcastle.

At about 5.30pm on Tuesday officers were contacted by a woman who had been using the cash point but her money was never dispensed.

She noticed the machine looked unusual and was able to peel off the front part of the machine.

It contained her money and so she contacted us and we believe the ATM had been fitted with a ‘cash trap’ to take customer’s money.

An investigation was launched and enquiries led officers to a nearby address where four men were arrested on suspicion of theft and have been released under investigation.

Detective Sergeant Jason Henry said: “This was quite a sophisticated scam and we believe a number of people may have fallen victim to it.

“I want to thank the member of the public who reported this and was able to provide some vital information to police that allowed us to make some quick arrests.

“We are now looking to speak to anyone who may have used this particular cash point between 3pm and 5pm on Tuesday.

“You may have tried to withdraw money but then walked away after no cash was dispensed. If this happened then it is likely you were scammed.

“We would urge you to contact police as it is important that we trace as many victims as possible for our investigation.”

Anyone who believes they may have been a victim of the scam is asked to contact police on 101 quoting log 799 09/06/20.

People can also report it online at the Northumbria Police website or email 8510@northumbria.pnn.police.uk