A gang of alleged cyber criminals who could have stolen millions of pounds when they took control of all the computers in a bank branch have been arrested.

Officers from the Metropolitan Police’s central e-crime unit (PCEU) yesterday arrested 11 men, aged between 23 and 50, in connection with the alleged attempt to steal from Santander at Surrey Quays shopping centre.

The gang had allegedly tapped into the Santander’s computer system using a device called a keyboard video mouse which could access the bank’s computers remotely.

Searches have been carried out at a number of addresses in Westminster, Hounslow, Hillingdon, Brent and Richmond, as well as Slough, where property has been seized.

A 34-year-old man was arrested in Vauxhall Bridge Road in connection with the same offence.

Detective inspector Mark Raymond, of the PCEU, said: “This was a sophisticated plot that could have led to the loss of a very large amount of money from the bank, and is the most significant case of this kind that we have come across.

“I would like to thank our partners from the industry who have provided valuable assistance throughout this investigation.

“The PCEU is committed to tackling cyber-crime and the damage it can cause to individuals, organisations and the wider economy.”

Those arrested are currently in custody at a London police station.