NSW Police's Rural Crime Investigators have established Strike Force Woden to investigate reports of a fraud currently targeting farmers from drought-stricken communities across NSW.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Police have received numerous reports of a person advertising hay bales on social media for a discounted price. In each of the cases, the seller has taken an initial deposit for the fodder but has not delivered any product.
NSW Police Force State Rural Crime Coordinator, Det Insp Cameron Whiteside, urged farmers and landholders to take extra care when purchasing fodder, water and other supplies to get them through the drought.
"These are difficult times, and it's disgusting to think anyone would seek to take advantage of people who have already been through so much," Det Insp Whiteside said.
"I would encourage anyone buying supplies online to only deal with people and businesses that have proven to be genuine in the past."
Det Insp Whiteside also appealed for anyone who thought they may have fallen victim to the scam to come forward and report it.
"It is important not to be embarrassed - scams succeed because they look like the real thing and catch people off guard," Det Insp Whiteside said.
"Our officers need as much information as possible in order to investigate these crimes thoroughly and find those responsible.
"If you have any information that might assist our investigators, please contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au."
