POLICE are warning people to be vigilant online after a number of scams on Facebook Marketplace.

Officers from across the country have reported crimes in recent months where the buyer, known as Peter Shyne, arrives at people’s homes to purchase an item, but uses a fake bank account to ‘make a payment.’

Shyne then leaves with the item, explaining to his victims that the money can sometimes take a while to transfer.

Scams have been reported involving an Apple Watch, a Nikon camera, and accessories worth £1,800.

PC Clare Horner-Locko from Sussex Police explained there have been at least nine reports of the scam in the region and warned others to be alert.

She said: “The concern is there are more victims out there. We’d like to hear from anyone who has been affected by an incident like this, so we can gather as much information as possible and stop this scam from carrying on.”

The suspect is described as white, 5’ 10” to six feet tall, of heavy build with a strong Irish accent. He is usually wearing a baseball cap and a facemask.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police online or call 101 quoting serial 664 of 03/09.

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