Leeds residents are being warned about a new trend in which people are being offered money for accepting parcels.

West Yorkshire Police has raised the alarm about the scheme that could result in you unwittingly committing a criminal offence.

The force warns that criminals are always looking for new ways to move illegal goods and stolen property without drawing attention to themselves.

They recruit innocent people, targeting students and other vulnerable people who might need to make some extra money, who take the packages on their behalf and receive cash for doing it. These packages may contain illegal drugs, offensive weapons, or stolen goods.

You could be committing criminal offences such as possession of controlled drugs, handing stolen goods or even money laundering, the force explains.

Chief Inspector Michelle Swift of West Yorkshire Police said: “This is worryingly becoming a growing trend, we’re seeing here in West Yorkshire.

“What may seem like an easy favour or a way to get quick cash, it could leave you facing a police investigation and a criminal record.

“Criminals will often use social media like SnapChat, Instagram, TikTok and Facebook to recruit people to help them.

“If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts and report it to us.

“We hope by raising awareness of this type of crime, people will be alert to the risks and tactics used by organised criminals. We would particularly encourage parents to have this conversation with their university age children to make them understand this type of trend and the dangers that are associated with it.”

If you believe you have been targeted in this way, you can report this by contacting the police on Live Chat via www.westyorkshire.police.uk/livechat or by calling 101.

If a crime is in progress or there is a danger to life, call 999 immediately.

You can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.