Woman bailed over alleged Facebook phone scam

The Suva Magistrate Court yesterday granted bail to a 37-year-old woman charged with obtaining $275 through an alleged fake mobile phone sale last year.

Cakacaka Vakacegu Tumaivei appeared before Chief Justice Josaia Waqaivolavola facing one count of obtaining a financial advantage by deception.

It is alleged that between October 2 and December 5 last year, the accused advertised a mobile phone for sale on Facebook, prompting the victim to transfer money believing the sale was legitimate.

The court heard that the victim lodged a complaint in Nadi, while the money was withdrawn from a Vodafone M-PAiSA account in Savusavu.

However, the court ruled that the matter would be heard in Suva, given the accused’s fixed address.

The court also heard that Tumaivei has two other similar matters pending at the Totogo Police Station in Suva.

With no objection from the State, the court granted bail, bonding the accused on a $200 non-cash bail.

Bail conditions include that she must not reoffend while on bail and must not interfere with State witnesses.

The matter has been adjourned to January 20, when the court will confirm her Legal Aid Commission representation and take her plea.