Authorities Urge Vigilance as Fraud Reports Rise

Law enforcement officials are warning the public to be on high alert following a surge in complaints about an alleged cement scam artist operating in several regions across Guyana. The individual is accused of defrauding unsuspecting customers by promising discounted cement deliveries that never materialize.

How the Scam Works

• False Promises: The alleged scam artist advertises cement for sale at prices significantly lower than the market rate, often using social media platforms and word-of-mouth to attract buyers.
• Upfront Payments: Victims are asked to make full or partial payments in advance, with assurances of prompt delivery.
• No Delivery: After receiving payment, the scammer becomes unreachable, leaving customers without their cement or any means of recourse.

Growing List of Victims

• Reports indicate that dozens of individuals and small contractors have fallen prey to the scheme, losing thousands of dollars collectively.
• Many victims only realize they have been scammed when repeated attempts to contact the seller fail and promised delivery dates pass without any sign of the goods.

Police Investigations Underway

• The Guyana Police Force has launched an investigation and is urging anyone who has been targeted or has information about the suspect to come forward.
• Authorities are working to track down the perpetrator and recover lost funds, but warn that such scams can be difficult to resolve once money has changed hands.

Official Warning

• The public is strongly advised to exercise caution when making purchases from unknown individuals or businesses, especially those offering deals that seem too good to be true.
• Police recommend verifying the legitimacy of suppliers, requesting receipts, and avoiding large upfront payments whenever possible.

Protect Yourself

• Always conduct transactions with reputable dealers.
• Be wary of deals that require immediate payment or offer unusually low prices.
• Report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station or the Consumer Affairs Division.

The authorities continue to monitor the situation and are committed to protecting consumers from fraud. Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and help spread the word to prevent further losses.