Full Breakdown
Police Raids and Arrests at Martin’s Funeral Directors Highlight Fraud Investigation in Lancashire
4/28/2026, 11:00:36 PM
Police Raids and Arrests at Martin’s Funeral Directors
On 28 April 2024, Lancashire Constabulary conducted coordinated raids at two premises operated by Martin’s Funeral Directors. The properties targeted were located on Tulketh Brow in Ashton-on-Ribble and Stonebridge Parade in Longridge. Officers also visited a private address on The Friars in Fulwood. During the operation, a man in his 60s and a woman in her 50s, both residents of Preston, were taken into custody on suspicion of fraud by false representation.
Background and Trigger for Police Action
The raids followed a report received earlier in April in which an unnamed source raised concerns about certain practices at Martin’s Funeral Directors. Lancashire Constabulary indicated that the complaint prompted a preliminary inquiry, which subsequently led to the execution of the search warrants on 28 April. The concerns related to the funeral homes’ business practices.
Timeline of Key Developments
- Early April 2024: Police receive a report concerning practices at Martin’s Funeral Directors.
- 28 April 2024 (morning): Raids executed at the two funeral-director offices and the Fulwood address; two arrests made.
- 28 April 2024 (later): Lancashire Constabulary releases a brief statement acknowledging the operation and urging the public to provide any relevant information.
Key Figures, Locations, and Numbers
- Premises raided: 2 funeral-director offices and 1 private residence.
- Arrests: 2 individuals (male, 60s; female, 50s).
- Geographic focus: Preston, Ashton-on-Ribble, Longridge, Fulwood within Lancashire.
- Alleged offence: fraud by false representation.
Official Police Statements
A Lancashire Constabulary spokesperson said the force appreciates public concern but, because the enquiry is at an early stage, it cannot comment further. The spokesperson urged anyone with information to call 101 and reference log 0212 of April 28.
Potential Impact on Local Funeral Services
The investigation highlights concerns about the integrity of funeral-service provision in the region. The raids illustrate law-enforcement readiness to address alleged misconduct in a sector that handles sensitive personal matters.
Conflicting Reports and Information Gaps
No detailed description of the alleged fraudulent conduct has been released. Neither Martin’s Funeral Directors nor the arrested individuals have issued public comments. Consequently, the precise nature of the false representation alleged by police remains undisclosed.
Direct Police Statement
> “We appreciate that reading about this may cause concern but while enquiries remain at this early stage it would be inappropriate to comment any further. If anyone has any information or concerns, they can call police on 101 quoting log 0212 of April 28th.” — Lancashire Constabulary spokesperson
What’s Next: Ongoing Investigation
The investigation remains active, with Lancashire Constabulary continuing to gather evidence. The force has invited members of the public to contact the police using the reference log 0212 should they possess information related to the case.
