Man arrested over online baby products scam

SINGAPORE - A 31-year-old man was arrested on Tuesday for his involvement in at least 15 reported cases of online cheating.

The suspect allegedly duped victims into buying milk powder and diapers which were never delivered.

Police said on Friday that the products were priced lower than normal retail prices and the suspect had used his online profile on a social media platform to advertise his service, which "attracted unsuspecting victims to make orders and transfer money into the suspect's bank account as payment".

Initially the suspect managed to deliver the ordered items purchased and "his popularity increased by word-of-mouth, resulting in even more orders from victims", police said. Subsequently he was unable to sustain the orders, and failed to deliver the products even though he continued to accept payments.

Police advised the public to be prudent and cautious when dealing with unknown people over the Internet.

They also advise other victims who may have fallen prey to lodge a police report.

Police investigations are ongoing. If convicted of cheating, the man could be jailed up to 10 years and fined.

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