A scam involving tractors and trucks has seen a Thames man charged with fraud.
Police are calling on potential victims to come forward following the arrest of the man last Wednesday.
He has been known to operate under the business names Absoloot Metals and Zhou Holdings, Coromandel/Hauraki CIB Detective Simon Everson says.
Police received a number of complaints from people across the North Island alleging they have been left out of pocket by the man arising from agreements with him to buy or sell motor vehicles.
He particularly engages with truck, tractor and scrap metal dealers.
He takes photos of trucks or tractors on farms or on the road and convinces dealers to pay for them before delivery.
He has also convinced dealers to let him drive trucks away before payment.
The man also targets scrap metal dealers by taking material and making false promises to pay the next day.
Police are aware of incidents occurring in Auckland in April 2009, Whangarei in December 2016, New Plymouth in December 2016, Hastings in January 2017, Hamilton in May 2017, Pukekohe in July 2017, and Turua in November 2017.
Police believe there are other victims who have not made formal complaints.
He was charged with a number of dishonesty offences and will appear in Thames District Court again next month.
If you have been affected or have information that could assist police with this investigation, please contact Detective Simon Everson, Coromandel/Hauraki CIB on 07 863 3711.
Information can also be provided anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
