FIVE people have been arrested in Wirral today on suspicion of fraud.

Merseyside Police executed a number of warrants at addresses in Birkenhead, Prenton and Wallasey in relation to a collision in Wallasey last March.

The five people arrested – two men aged 28 and 41 and three woman aged 38, 39 and 59 years were all arrested on suspicion of fraud and conspiracy to commit fraud.

They have all been taken to a police station where they are being questioned by officers.

Enquiries into the incidents are ongoing.

Detective Constable Chris O'Connor, said: "The arrests are part of ongoing investigations involving road traffic collisions that are believed to have been staged.

"Not only are incidents of this nature dangerous they can affect each and every road user by impacting on victims and insurance premiums.

"We work closely with partner agencies, including the Insurance Fraud Bureau, to identify those responsible for these incidents and bring them to justice.

"I would like to reassure the community that we treat these types of incidents extremely seriously and any information provided will be thoroughly investigated by officers.

"Anyone with any information about fraud can either call Merseyside Police on the 101 number, through Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111 or via the Insurance Fraud Bureau on 0800 422 0421."