Three people from Ottawa were arrested after police tracked multiple buy-and-sell incidents that left victims with thousands in losses.
Officials launched the case in March after multiple reports of people using counterfeit money to purchase items found on online buy-and-sell platforms like Facebook Marketplace. Some of the items bought using the fraudulent money include electronics, collectible cards, gold jewellery and computer equipment.
According to the press release, multiple victims have lost tens of thousands of dollars.
On June 13, the police tactical unit executed a search warrant at a home around 6:00 a.m. in the Parkwood Hills area of the nation’s capital. Inside, they found three people and arrested them.
One person tried to run away but was taken into custody, officers said.
In the search, police found thousands in fake money and legitimate currency, a quantity of stolen property and about 1.5 kilograms of marijuana.
Ali Qasem, 29, Hudie Ghezel, 21 and Yassir Farah, 18 are expected to face charges.
“The Ottawa Police Service would like to thank the Ontario Provincial Police for their assistance in this investigation, including support related to a stolen e-bike believed to be connected to a fraudulent online transaction in Kemptville,” the release notes.
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