7 April 2006

Police Investigate Skimming Incidents

Henderson Police say a foreign national has been identified purchasing phone cards that may be linked to the skimming incidents, at the BNZ Bank branches at New Lynn and at Silverdale.

John Sutton, Officer in Charge, Waitakere CIB, says police have a good description of a male foreign national, who recently purchased more than 50 phone cards at a souvenir store in Customs Street, close to the Westfield Downtown Shopping Complex.

"The description given to the Police indicates he may be a South American national."

"Several fraudulent transactions have occurred in the past week in central Auckland. On each occasion, the skimming information has been used at CBD ATM machines."

"The enquiry team want to talk to this man about his recent phone card purchases. Some of cards he used were seized by the bank during these fraudulent transactions."

We are appealing to the public for any information, that will assist us to establish both his identity, and his current whereabouts," Detective Sutton said.

The person we are seeking is:

Male, aged 35- 40 years Caucasian with Olive complexion Medium to solid build Height - 180 cm tall. Clean shaven. Speaks English poorly Has pronounced foreign accent Accent possibly South American Dresses casually, May be staying in Back Packer locations

Skimming is a global phenomenon. If anyone has any information that will assist us locate this person, we want to hear from them, Detective Senior Sergeant Sutton said.

ENDS

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