THE GOAN NETWORK
VASCO
A youth from Cortalim fell prey to a scam on a reputed online platform and lost Rs 39,000 while trying to buy a new bike worth Rs 98,000 through the platform.
Speaking to The Goan, Makarand Chari said pictures of a bike were uploaded on OLX website and he had initially struck a deal at Rs 16,000.
"I fell prey to a scam on the first day of the New Year and despite repeated attempts, neither the bank or the police are willing to help me. I want the police to investigate the scam so that others don't fall prey like me and lose their money,” said Chari.
"When I initially contacted the seller, he told me he was a defence personnel and he told me to deposit Rs 1,000 for delivery charges which I did on Google Pay.”
“Later, another person called me saying the bike was received at Tiswadi and that I should pay Rs 6,150. He later called me to say that money had not been received and made me pay Rs 6,150 again, saying that I would get an OTP.”
“Though I requested him to meet me, he refused and told me to send another Rs 9,500 as GST. Finally, he told me to pay Rs 16,000, failing which the bike could be stuck. I was even informed that the bike is with the police who are verifying details. However, I did not pay the amount,” said Chari.
Chari said he then insisted on a refund of his money.
“They then pressurised me to pay another Rs 18,000, failing which they said the police would file an FIR against me for cancelling the bike sale and asking for refund and that I may have to spend Rs 2 lakh to come out of the jail. However, I refused to pay this Rs 18,000.”
Chari said he has notified the Verna police in the matter.
“The person who cheated me on the OLX platform had cheated many others as well. I have provided all details, including the phone numbers of multiple persons involved, transaction details, voice recordings and their modus operandi but there has been no police action as yet," added Chari.
