TRADING standards officers in Hartlepool have issued a warning to businesses about a money-laundering scam from Nigeria.

The confidence trick, which first appeared a number of years ago, involves a letter from a doctor saying that millions of dollars are hidden in secret Nigerian bank accounts.

The doctor says that unless the money is moved out of the country it will be lost, and offers up to 20 per cent commission to anyone who is able to provide a bank account to hold the money.

The prospect of millions of dollars in commission has tempted many people across the country to offer help.

Volunteers are initially requested to make small payments to help with the money transfer, but problems arise, requiring more money before the transfer can take place.

Some people have lost thousands of pounds waiting for money that never arrives.

Ian Harrison, senior trading standards officer in Hartlepool, said: "This scam has been around before, but we wanted to bring it to people's attention again in the hope that no one in Hartlepool falls for it.

"These conmen can come across as being very genuine, and in the past people have lost thousands of pounds in the process.

"Anyone receiving any correspondence should not be tempted by the offer, even if it seems too good to be true."

For details call (01429) 523362.