Public Advisory: Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force Cautions Against Facebook Scams

The rise of online marketplaces and social media platforms has revolutionized the way we buy and sell goods, offering unparalleled convenience and reach. However, this digital landscape has also become a breeding ground for fraudulent activities, with unsuspecting individuals falling prey to sophisticated scams that exploit trust and anonymity. The case of a fraudulent vehicle sale advertised on Facebook serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers lurking within the online marketplace and the crucial need for vigilance and caution.

On June 1st, 2025, an individual using the alias “Akeem Harris” advertised a black Honda CR-V for sale on Facebook for $17,000 ECD. An interested buyer, enticed by the seemingly attractive offer, made a down payment of $4,000 ECD via mobile banking, with the expectation of receiving the vehicle the same day. However, the promised delivery never materialized, and the seller began fabricating excuses, claiming to have missed the boat. Subsequently, the seller concocted a story about ownership transfer fees, requesting an additional $6,000 ECD. After receiving a total of $10,000 ECD from the unsuspecting buyer, the seller became unresponsive and ultimately claimed to be out of the country, severing all communication and leaving the buyer with a significant financial loss and no vehicle.

This incident underscores the critical importance of exercising extreme caution when conducting transactions online, particularly with individuals whose identities and legitimacy cannot be readily verified. The allure of a seemingly good deal can often blind individuals to the potential risks involved, making them vulnerable to scams. The anonymity afforded by online platforms allows fraudsters to operate with relative impunity, creating fictitious identities and disappearing without a trace after defrauding their victims. The inherent difficulty in tracing online transactions and identifying perpetrators further complicates matters, often leaving victims with little recourse.

To safeguard against such scams, individuals should prioritize verifying the identity and legitimacy of sellers before engaging in any financial transactions. This can involve conducting thorough background checks, verifying the seller’s contact information, and confirming the ownership of the advertised goods through official documentation. Meeting in person to inspect the item and finalize the transaction is highly recommended, as it allows for direct interaction and assessment of the seller’s credibility. Furthermore, involving a trusted third party, such as a legal representative or a reputable escrow service, can provide an additional layer of security, especially for high-value purchases.

When a deal appears too good to be true, it often is. Extreme caution should be exercised in such situations, and individuals should resist the temptation to rush into a transaction without conducting proper due diligence. It is crucial to remember that legitimate sellers will readily provide verifiable information and accommodate reasonable requests for verification. A reluctance to disclose information or meet in person should be considered a major red flag, warranting immediate suspicion and prompting further investigation.

The Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force is actively investigating this specific case of online fraud. However, combating online scams requires a collective effort, with individuals playing a vital role in protecting themselves and the community. Reporting suspected fraudulent activities to the authorities is essential, as it helps to identify patterns, track down perpetrators, and prevent future occurrences. Sharing information about scams and raising awareness within the community can also contribute significantly to creating a safer online environment. By working together and exercising vigilance, we can collectively minimize the risk of falling victim to online fraud and protect our community from the devastating financial and emotional consequences of these scams. If you have any information regarding online scams or believe you may have been targeted, please report it to the nearest police station or call Crime Stoppers at 707.