Police advisory concerning fraudulent Facebook Messenger vendors

The culprit(s) advertise cars, boats, motorcycles, and other items at attractive prices. To gain the purchasers trust, vendors (suspects) send images of Government issued ID’s which they claim to be their identity. As a result, the victims’ trust is gained and deposits or transfers money onto an account in the name of the person whose ID was presented or some other third party.

The victims are then informed that once the item is paid for, it will be delivered within two or three weeks. However, almost immediately after the funds are deposited or transferred to the account, the suspect discontinues communication with the victim.

The Royal Bahamas Police Force strongly advises members of the public to be cautious when sending money to individuals they are not familiar with. Additionally, we want to caution individuals not to give their bank account and personal Identification to unknown persons through social media. Your personal information, and identification will be used in perpetuating the scam. This gives the appearance that you are also a part of the fraudulent activities. If you were affected by such a scam, contact the Financial Investigations Branch at 356-6027.

CONFIDENTIAL HOTLINE

Police are appealing to members of the public, who may have information that can assist with our investigations into these incidents and other criminal matters, to contact the Criminal Investigations Department at 502-9991/2, Crime stoppers at 328-TIPS (8477) or the nearest police station.

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