In a case that highlights the risks of online shopping, authorities in the state of Amazonas have taken two individuals into custody. The suspects, a 27-year-old woman and a 30-year-old man, were arrested in the city of Eirunepé on Thursday, May 7th. They are under investigation for alleged electronic fraud and criminal association.
The investigation was launched following a series of complaints from victims located in various Brazilian states. According to the Civil Police, these victims reported purchasing cactus plants through advertisements on social media platforms, specifically Instagram and WhatsApp. After making payments, the buyers never received the plants they had ordered.
Delegado Ramon Improta, leading the case, explained the alleged method of operation. The pair would reportedly advertise the cacti online, collect payment from interested buyers, and then fail to ship the products. This pattern of behavior led to multiple reports being filed not only in Eirunepé but also in other jurisdictions across the country.
The arrests mark a significant step in the ongoing investigation into what police describe as a fraudulent scheme. The case underscores the importance of consumer vigilance when engaging in transactions on social media marketplaces. Authorities continue to examine the full scope of the alleged operation.
Based on reporting from g1.