Launceston detectives have today charged a 22-year-old man from West Launceston with numerous dishonesty offences, following a series of incidents relating to mobile phone sales on social media.

Police will allege the man dishonestly obtained several mobile phones from people attempting to sell them on Facebook marketplace, after presenting an allegedly falsified bank transfer receipt.

“Police would like to remind Tasmanians to be careful when buying and selling second hand goods, especially through online platforms like Facebook Marketplace and Gumtree,” said Detective Constable Aaron Hart.

“People selling items should ensure the payment has been received, not just sent, before handing any goods over to the buyer,” he said.

The offences reportedly occurred earlier this month. The man is due to appear in the Launceston Magistrates Court in an out of hours sitting later today.