The Trinidad and Tobago Police Service is investigating a case of online marketplace fraud after a 20-year-old man was reportedly tricked into purchasing a fake Playstation 5.
Officers of the Besson Street Police District say the victim, of Oropune Gardens, Piarco, made contact with a Facebook account operating under the name “Luke Lewis” on Sunday 4th May, regarding a console valued at 2,700 dollars.
Reports indicate that on Thursday 8th May, around 6:00 p.m., the victim met a male suspect at the corner of Park and Charlotte Streets in Port of Spain, near the Republic Bank car park, where the exchange took place.
The suspect allegedly handed over a black plastic bag containing a boxed item, after which the victim paid the agreed sum. The man then left the area on foot along Bath Street.
However, upon later inspection, the victim discovered the box contained three large stones instead of the advertised gaming console.
The suspect is described as a slim-built male of African descent, with a dark brown complexion, approximately five feet nine inches tall, and was last seen wearing dark clothing.
Police say investigations are ongoing, with officers collecting statements and reviewing CCTV footage.
The Trinidad and Tobago Police Service is reminding the public to exercise caution when conducting transactions online, advising persons to meet in safe, public locations, thoroughly inspect items before payment, and avoid carrying large sums of cash.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Besson Street Police District, or call 555, 999, or Crime Stoppers at 800-TIPS.