JCF investigating reports of real estate fraud linked to Hurricane Melissa
/ Our Today
administrator
The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) is actively investigating recent reports of real estate fraud being perpetrated against persons who have been impacted by Hurricane Melissa.
Speaking at a JIS Think Tank on December 8, Deputy Director of the Counter-Terrorism and Organised Crime Division (CTOC), Acting Senior Superintendent of Police Victor Barrett noted that the reports are concerning, as persons are capitalising on people’s tragedy.
“Yes, we see persons purporting to be realtors in offering homes for rental, because we know persons in the western side of the island have been displaced, and there’s a great urgency for shelter, so we are seeing that,” he said.
Acting SSP Barrett explained that scammers are exploiting the urgent need for accommodation among persons displaced by the hurricane.
“So, they are playing on the impulse of the weak right now…if you have a house with your children and it was destroyed by Melissa, you need somewhere to go,” he said.
He noted that fraudsters are using social media platforms to lure victims. “So, what they do is that they would post on social media that a house in a particular area is for rent. And there might be several persons on the waiting list, so you need to hurry. And then you want somewhere for your children, so you rush, transfer $50,000 to hold the space or to hold for viewing. And then within a few seconds, you can’t reach them anymore. So, they play on the emotion of the weak and it’s very sad,” he said.
Addressing questions about investigations, Acting SSP Barrett confirmed that the matter is fresh and under active review. “So that was reported…We saw it in the social media last week, so it’s very new. So, we are doing some investigations along those lines,” he explained.
He assured the public that the JCF is fully committed to safeguarding Jamaicans amidst these emerging threats. “What I can say to you is that we are committed to protecting our citizens and the people of Jamaica,” he said.
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