Detectives have honed in on a man from Melbourne’s South Eastern suburbs who allegedly stole more than $1.4 million from three victims in a series of elaborate diamond scams.
The 42 year-old man was arrested and charged by detectives from the Moorabbin Crime Investigation Unit recently, after allegedly conning his victims over a four year period.
It is alleged the man approached his victims claiming to own a diamond mine in Sierra Leone, offering victims the opportunity to invest in the mine. Once an initial sum was paid, the offender allegedly asked for equipment and various gifts for his employees before on-selling items received in an offshore shop.
The three victims collectively lost more than $1.4 million, with each victim reported to have lost between $100,000 to more than $1 million as a result of the alleged scam, which occurred between September 2017 and October 2021.
The 42 year-old man was recently arrested and charged with 150 deception related offences, including obtaining property by deception.
He has been bailed to appear before the Melbourne Committal Court on Wednesday 2 February 2022.
Detective Senior Sergeant Jason Venturoni urged community members to be wary of scams and con artists, as they were incredibly deceptive and took both a financial and psychological toll on the victim.
“Criminals involved in the deception of others are often convincing and take advantage of people’s trust to exploit others for their own financial gain,” Det. Sen. Sgt. Venturoni said.
“The community can rest assured that Victoria Police will leave no stone unturned investigating online scams and frauds, given they often leave a significant psychological and financial impact on the victim.”
He encouraged anyone who felt they may have been targeted by scammers to reach out to police and seek assistance.
“Victims are often left feeling a wide range of emotions including anger, helplessness and humiliation – but it is important to know that no victim is to blame, and help is available,” he said.
“If you believe you are the victim of deception, we urge you to contact your local police station.”
