KINGSTON, Jamaica — A 31-year-old auto mechanic has been charged with conspiracy to defraud and attempt to obtain money by false pretence in relation to an incident that occurred on Third Street, Kingston on Wednesday, January 10.

Detectives assigned to the Kingston Western Police Division say Geico, given name Giovani Francis, contacted a man by telephone purporting to be a government minister.

While reportedly pretending to be the minister— in conversation, Francis allegedly claimed he could purchase two Toyota Prado motor vehicles at an upcoming auction at a reduced rate.

It is further reported that Francis informed the man that he should pay customs and storage fees amounting to $2.5 million.

The would-be victim, however, got suspicious and decided to contact the government minister, whom Francis was pretending to be. After hearing the complainant’s story, the minister confirmed that this activity was a scam and encouraged the man to contact the police.

Francis was subsequently arrested during an operation and was charged after undergoing a question-and-answer session in the presence of his attorney.

His court date has not been finalised.