GARDAI have issued a warning to the public at large not to issue refunds before checking that a payment is verified by a bank or financial institution.
Recently, a local charity was caught up in a scam when a it received a large cheque donation, which it lodged to their account.
The charity was subsequently contacted by the ‘donor’ who stated that the cheque had been donated in error and that a partial refund was now required for medical expenses.
The charity became suspicious, however, and did not refund any money. They later became aware that the cheque they had received was stolen.
“This type of overpayment scam is quite common,” said sergeant Brian Broderick.
“It is particularly prevalent in the property rental business where a larger than requested deposit is paid with a stolen or forged cheque or draft, and then a refund requested.
“Refunds should never be made until the original payment has been cleared by the bank or financial institution”.
Meanwhile, opportunist thefts continue to be a common occurrence in Limerick, with two separate incidents in the past week.
Thieves gained entry through unlocked rear patio door at a house in Ashbourne Park, South Circular Road, on Saturday November 19 between 5.30pm and 7.30pm.
A black ladies handbag, which contained a quantity of cash, a driving licence and various debit and credit cards, was stolen from the kitchen table.
The occupants of a house in Kilmurry Village, Castletroy, left their front door unlocked and had a black Nordmende 18 inch television stolen.
“In one-third of all burglaries, the raider gains entry through an unlocked door or window,” said crime prevention officer, Brian Broderick.
“We could dramatically reduce the number of domestic burglaries by locking doors and windows, simple precautions that cost nothing”.
The assistance of the public is key to solving crime, according to gardaí, who made arrests after the theft of valuables from cars, thanks to help from witnesses.
“Week in and week out we are seeing thefts from cars and vans where the owner has made it really easy for the criminal by leaving valuables such as Sat Navs, mobile phones, laptops and handbags on display,” concluded Sergeant Brian Broderick.
