Fake beggars have been travelling to a Welsh town to beg before returning home on the train.
The group, aged between 30 and 50 years old, have been making the 200-mile round trip to travel between Aberystwyth and their homes in Cardiff.
A police appeal said the kindness of residents in the town had been "exploited" by individuals who were "not genuinely homeless".
It is believed many residents and visitors to the seaside town donated money believing the group were genuinely in need.
The group then return home by train or bus.
A spokeswoman said the fake beggars were "of Romanian descent" - and they knew this because the group had "previously engaged with police".
PC Phil Woodland added: “I’m proud to work in a town where people want to help each other, but in this case, their kindness is being exploited.
“We’ve tried working with the group to ensure they have the support they need, and through this effort it’s become clear they are not genuinely homeless. We are using legal powers where possible and necessary to deal with the issue.
“Giving money to someone who is begging is a personal choice, however, on this occasion the community is being misled. At the end of the day, these people are returning to their homes - they are essentially scamming people.”
The situation is being monitored by the neighbourhood policing team, and anyone with information is asked to report it to Dyfed-Powys Police online , by email at contactcentre@dyfed-powys.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101.
If you are deaf, hard of hearing or speech impaired text the non-emergency number on 07811 311 908.
If you are concerned about someone you believe is sleeping rough, StreetLink helps to connect them with the local services that can provide support.
Shelter Cymru offers practical advice on how to help someone who is begging, or you believe is homeless, on their website
