Man jailed over money swapping fraud
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The District Court today (May 4) sentenced a 39-year-old man to 12 months jail for money swapping fraud.

The District Court heard that on October 23, last year Commercial Crime Bureau (CCB) officers mounted an intelligence-led operation to crack down on a street deception syndicate.

Officers spotted the defendant, Chen Zhi-lin, approaching a convenience store in San Hong Street, Sheung Shui. Chen Zhi-lin presented a HK$1,000 banknote to staff to purchase a packet of cigarette costing HK$25.

When the staff member was about to tender the exact change to Chen Zhi-lin, the defendant said he had a $5 coin and immediately took back the $1,000 banknote to cause a moment of confusion.

The defendant then asked the staff member to give him change of $980 but was refused. Chen Zhi-lin left the store without completing the purchase.

Chen Zhi-lin was later seen approaching three other fast food shops where he attempted similar money swapping acts. He was arrested at one of the fast food shops in Tai Po.

Investigations indicated that Chen Zhi-lin was involved in three similar cases and he was charged with seven related offences including fraud and attempted fraud.

The defendant pleaded guilty to three charges at the District Court and sentence was handed out today (May 4).

Police Report No.7
Issued by PPRB

End/Monday, May 04, 2009