Police probe cheque scam

THE PSNI is appealing for information following a number of incidents during which fraudulent cheques have been presented to commercial premises across the province.

Police across Northern Ireland have received reports of a male entering commercial premises and paying for equipment with cheques which when presented to the bank are returned as Account Closed.

To date, fraudulent cheques with a total value of more than £16,000 have been presented to businesses including golf clubs, electrical stores and restaurants in a number of areas including Lurgan, Portadown, Belfast, Antrim, Lisburn and Larne.

In one of the most recent incidents, a man entered commercial premises in the Main Street area of Lisnaskea on July 22. He purchased a television valued at approximately £600 with a cheque. The member of staff then checked with the bank and it was confirmed the account the cheque was written from was a closed account.

Police believe there may be further incidents which have not yet been reported and and would urge anyone who believes they may have been a victim of fraud in similar circumstances to contact them.

Business owners are also urged to make all staff aware of customers using cheques to purchase large quantities of equipment and to contact police if there are any concerns.

Anyone with information or anyone who believes they may have been a victim of fraud in similar circumstances is asked to contact their local police station on 0845 600 8000.