The Insurance Fraud Bureau (IFB) has announced a successful second major investigation into an organised criminal network believed to be staging motor vehicle accidents and attempting to defraud insurance companies.

The IFB has been working closely with Hertfordshire Constabulary's Serious and Organised Crime Group in the investigation, code named Operation Mysterious, with warrants being executed at six addresses in England.

Eight people have been arrested and are currently being questioned at police stations across Hertfordshire. Enquiries continue and the IFB is providing ongoing support to the police.

John Beadle, chairman of the IFB, commented: “The success of this operation… sends a very clear message and significant deterrent to the criminals targeting innocent motorists and our industry. 'The IFB knows who you are and we are coming after you'. These two operations demonstrate the power of a collaborative partnership between police and insurers via the IFB.”