A 40-year-old woman is set to appear in court today facing charges of Obtaining Financial Advantage. The charges stem from an incident that allegedly took place on July 24, 2024, when the woman reportedly misappropriated $165 from a victim via the M-Paisa platform.
According to police investigations, the victim came across a Facebook advertisement for an iPhone listed at $330. After expressing interest in the purchase, she contacted the accused, who instructed her to send a deposit of $165 in order to secure the phone, promising that it would be delivered via courier. After transferring the funds, the victim was unable to reach the accused, prompting her to report the matter to the Tavua Police Station.
The accused was subsequently apprehended by the Fiji Police Force’s M-Paisa Taskforce Team and is now in custody, awaiting her appearance at the Magistrates Court in Nabouwalu.
This situation serves as a reminder of the potential risks involved in online transactions. It underscores the importance of exercising caution when dealing with purchases made through social media platforms, as they can be a fertile ground for scams. Victims are encouraged to report any fraudulent activity to the authorities to help combat such offenses and protect others in the community.
In light of this incident, it is hopeful that increased awareness and vigilance among online shoppers can help prevent similar occurrences in the future, contributing to a safer online marketplace for everyone.
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