A 26-year-old man has been remanded in custody by the Magistrate’s Court in Suva for an alleged online scam case whereby he posted an online advertisement for a rental property without the consent of the owner.

The accused, Pramitesh Prakash is alleged to have posted an online advertisement of a property for rent in Denarau without the 73-year-old owner’s consent where he obtained $1129.50.

Prakash is charged with one count of obtaining financial advantage by deception.

Police prosecutor Woman Constable (WC) Kula Nainoca served Prakash with a full phase of disclosures.

She told the court that Prakash posted the rental advertisement online where a woman from Australia contacted him and booked the property for rent for eight days.

WC Nainoca said as per the conditions of pre-booking, the complainant paid a 50 per cent deposit which amounted to $1129.50.

Prakash waived the right to a lawyer and pleaded guilty to the charge. He said he was remorseful and wished to return the complainant’s money.

The matter has been adjourned for Wednesday for prosecution to summon the complainant and for Prakash to arrange the money to be refunded.

Story By: ashna.kumar@fijisun.com.fj