Man arrested over credit card fraud

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Police have arrested a 41-year-old Wellington man for allegedly fraudulently obtaining goods worth more than $50,000.

Police allege the man using dishonestly obtained credit card details to buy goods over the phone and internet.

Detective Sergeant Ian Martin of Kapiti police said the credit card numbers allegedly used by the man were legitimate, but the offender did not possess the credit cards.

As the cards were not reported as stolen, the transactions were generally being accepted, he said.

The man had targeted high value items from electronic and hardware stores throughout the Wellington, Kapiti and Hutt area, Mr Martin said.

Mr Martin said Kapiti and Wellington police had carried out a series of search warrants on Friday but none of the property obtained had been recovered.

It is possible that there are further people involved who are offending in a similar manner, he said.

The alleged fraud was a reminder for retailers who should request the identification number from the card and check it when the items were picked up on order.

"I would urge all retailers to scrutinise telephone and internet transactions involving credit cards and contact their bank if they have any concerns."

The man appeared in the Porirua District Court on Saturday on eight charges of obtaining by deception, with more charges likely, Mr Martin said.

Police are working with the banks involved to establish the full extent of the offending.

- © Fairfax NZ News