Gardaí in the Mayo Roscommon Longford Division are investigating a number of recent incidents where unscrupulous criminals are targeting agricultural suppliers.

 

On the 24^th July an agri supplier in the Strokestown area reported that he had a tri-axle cattle trailer advertised on DoneDeal.

He was contacted by a buyer, with a northern accent, and agreed a price of €8,500 for the trailer.

The buyer sent on a picture of a Bank draft for that amount to the seller and arranged for another male to collect the trailer.

It was collected on the 24^th July, however, the bank draught did not arrive and the seller is now at a loss.

 

On the 18^th April an agri supplier in the Belmullet area reported the agreed sale of cow mats to the value of €6,000. 

The alleged purchaser forwarded alleged proof of payment and collected the mats.

However, the money has not come through.  No goods returned. The seller is now at a loss.

 

Sergeant Damien Bartley, Crime Prevention Officer is warning agri suppliers to consider the following when selling goods:

 

• Know you buyer– conduct thorough background checks on potential buyers
• Secure payment methods– use secure and traceable payment methods such as bank transfers, credit cards or trusted escrow services. Avoid accepting personal cheques or cash from unknown buyers
• Require deposits– for large orders, require a deposit or partial payment upfront before shipping/collection of the goods
• Report suspicious activity– if you encounter suspicious behavior or believe you are the target of fraud contact An Garda Síochána on 999. Sharing this information can help protect other sellers