A WOMAN who handed over cash for a laptop on a Richhill street fell foul of a sophisticated scam, it has been revealed.
And the incident – which happened on Saturday, August 25 – has led to police in Armagh warning the public not to be taken in by thieves posing as salesmen.
The woman was approached by a man on Main Street in the village and asked for directions to Craigavon. He then brought her to a burgundy coloured car, where another man – described as being in his 20s with scars on his face – showed her ipads, ipods and laptops he was selling.
The woman bought a device and handed over £100. When she subsequently opened the laptop case she was given, she found it contained nothing more than two bottles of water!
Inspector Nigel Graham said: “Purchasing goods from shops and premises provides protection for consumers. When you buy from unknown sources you have no protection!
“If you are approached by someone on the street offering goods for sale that appear too good to be true, they probably are. Fraudsters come in many guises and their ability to practice new frauds is infinite and everyone should be alert to this.”
Police would like to hear from anyone who noticed these men or a vehicle of this description in the Main Street area of Richhill on August 25. They can be contacted in Armagh on 0845 600 8000. If you prefer to provide information without giving your details, you can contact the independent Crimestoppers charity anonymously on 0800 555 111.
