Two more people have been arrested in relation to a phone scam that is costing Kiwis thousands.
On Tuesday, police announced 13 people had been arrested for money laundering as part of their investigations into a scam that has seen New Zealanders hundreds of thousands of dollars.
The scammers call victims and claim to be from Spark and the police before convincing them to hand over money. In some cases, the victims are told to download software which gives the scammers access to the victim's computer.
Police say hundreds of New Zealanders have potentially fallen victim to the criminals' plot, which targets the elderly and vulnerable.
On Thursday, two men - aged 21 and 22 - were arrested for money laundering and will appear before the Auckland District Court on Friday. Police are still looking for 24-year-old Manish Khan who is also believed to be involved in the scam.
Anyone with details about his whereabouts can provide information to Detective Gillum by phoning 09 213 4300 or by emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Information can also be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers by phoning 0800 555 111.
How to protect yourself
Despite public warnings, police say they are still continuing to receive reports of people falling victims to this scam.
"We really need the community to help us spread the message to their friends and family, particularly the more vulnerable, elderly members of our community, to make sure they are also aware of this scam," Detective Sergeant Kevin Blackman said earlier this week.
"This is an important reminder to never give your personal details over the phone to a stranger.
"A legitimate business or a member of the NZ Police will never ask for your bank details over the phone or ask you to transfer money. If you think a call may be suspicious, hang up immediately.
"If you have concerns about a call, ring the company back on their publicly listed number, not the number they have called you on, and alert them to the call you have just received."
Police encourage anyone who has lost money as a result of this scam to report it to their local station.
